Priyanka Tiwari
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Just days after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) raided former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel’s residence, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) launched searches at properties associated with him in Raipur and Bhilai. The searches are linked to the ongoing probe into the ₹6,000 crore Mahadev Online Book betting scam.
The raids took place on Wednesday, March 27, as part of a broader operation spanning 60 locations across Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, and other states. The focus is on individuals tied to the scam, including politicians, bureaucrats, and private associates.
What is the Mahadev Betting App Scam?
The Mahadev Online Book is alleged to be one of India’s largest illegal betting networks, involving online betting on sports, card games, and even elections.
Key allegations include:
Match-fixing and game manipulation
Cryptocurrency-based money laundering
Use of WhatsApp-based groups to handle bets and evade detection
The case came into the spotlight after the ED tracked financial links to a lavish ₹250 crore wedding in the UAE, hosted by Mahadev co-founder Sourabh Chandrakar.
Key Accused: Chandrakar and Uppal
Sourabh Chandrakar (28) and Ravi Uppal (43), both from Bhilai, are considered the masterminds.
They reportedly ran the operation from Dubai and amassed approximately ₹6,000 crore.
In October 2023, a charge sheet was filed under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Interpol has issued red notices against both men.
Political Reactions and Allegations of Vendetta
Congress leaders have strongly condemned the raids.
Chhattisgarh Congress chief Deepak Baij accused the BJP of misusing investigative agencies for political purposes.
“This is government desperation,” Baij posted on X, referring to the CBI presence at Baghel’s and another leader’s homes.
Former deputy CM TS Singh Deo also labeled the raids as harassment.
The CBI searches occurred just as Baghel was preparing to leave for a key All India Congress Committee (AICC) meeting in Delhi. His office confirmed the raids on social media.
Expanded Investigation Beyond Chhattisgarh
The CBI's latest crackdown includes searches at multiple locations across:
Chhattisgarh (Raipur, Bhilai)
Madhya Pradesh (Bhopal)
Delhi
West Bengal (Kolkata)
Targets include political figures, police officials, bureaucrats, and associates of the Mahadev Book operation.
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