Political Storm Brews as CBI Searches Ex-Chief Minister's Premises in Betting Scandal

The CBI's investigation into the Mahadev betting case has sparked political tensions in Chhattisgarh. The Congress party faces allegations of corruption during Bhupesh Baghel's tenure, while the BJP is accused of using the probe for political gain. The ongoing investigation spans multiple states, targeting officials and politicians.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched a series of searches across 60 locations linked to former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel as part of the Mahadev betting case probe. This has ignited a political controversy, with the Congress party accusing the central agency of politically motivated actions.

Congress state president Deepak Baij alleged that profits from the Mahadev betting app flowed to both BJP and Congress leaders, while Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao countered, asserting these searches are part of ongoing investigations into past scams during Baghel's tenure. Sao emphasized that these operations do not target a single individual.

The CBI's efforts are part of an extensive probe across Chhattisgarh, Bhopal, Kolkata, and Delhi, involving senior bureaucrats and key figures suspected to be part of the illegal betting network. The investigation continues even as documents and digital evidence have been seized, highlighting the complexity of the case.

(With inputs from agencies.)