In the investigation of Mahadev Book online betting scam, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) today is conducting searches at 60 locations across Chhattisgarh, Bhopal, Kolkata, and Delhi including premises linked to politicians, senior bureaucrats, police officers, key functionaries of Mahadev Book, and other private individuals suspected of involvement in the case.
The Mahadev Betting App Case is a high-profile scandal involving an online betting platform that enabled illegal gambling on various games, including poker, card games, badminton, tennis, football, and cricket. The app was operated by Dubai-based Saurabh Chandrakar, a former juice seller, and his accomplice Ravi Uppal, both of whom hail from Chhattisgarh, according to the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The ED has alleged that the app operated by franchising “panel/branches” to known associates on a 70-30 profit ratio, using the platform to enroll new users, create IDs, and launder money through a complex network of Benami bank accounts. The operation reportedly generated an astounding ₹200 crore daily.
The case pertains to the illegal operations of Mahadev Book, an online betting platform promoted by Ravi Uppal and Saurabh Chandrakar, both of whom are currently based in Dubai. Investigations have revealed that the promoters allegedly paid substantial amounts as “protection money” to public servants to ensure the smooth and uninterrupted functioning of their illegal betting network.
Initially registered by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Raipur, the case was subsequently transferred to the CBI by the Government of Chhattisgarh for a comprehensive probe into the role of senior public officials and other accused persons. In the course of searches incriminating digital and documentary evidences have been found and seized. Searches are continuing.