Baghel Questions Chhattisgarh Government Over Mahadev Betting App Probe

Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has raised concerns over the state's handling of numerous investigations, including the Mahadev Betting App case. He argues that only the central government can effectively shut down the operation, urging more decisive action. An FIR has named Baghel in a related money laundering probe.

Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel questioned the new state government regarding several ongoing investigations, including the Mahadev Betting App case. Speaking to ANI, Baghel criticized the government's inefficacy, stating, "They handed over so many cases to CBI, but what were the results? It has been nine months since the new government came into power. First, the police were probing it, then the ED entered the scene during the Lok Sabha elections. Now, it has been handed over to the CBI. Only the central government can shut down Mahadev Betting; why aren't they doing it? If they shut it down, no scam will take place," Baghel remarked.

Earlier in the week, the BJP-led Chhattisgarh government transferred the investigation of the Mahadev betting app case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Simultaneously, the Mumbai Crime Branch's Special Investigation Team (SIT) arrested Bharat Chaudhary in connection with the Rs 15,000-crore Mahadev betting app scam.

Notably, the Chhattisgarh Economic Offenses Wing (EOW) has named Baghel in its FIR linked to the Mahadev Online Book money laundering case. Sources say the FIR was based on a probe report submitted by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED). In November, the ED conducted searches against money laundering networks associated with the alleged Mahadev Book Online Betting App, recovering Rs 5.39 crore in cash and a bank balance of Rs 15.59 crore. The ED continues to investigate the Mahadev Online Book, which allegedly facilitates illegal betting through a network of Benami bank accounts.

(With inputs from agencies.)