What is Mahadev Betting App Scam, Who are the Masterminds?

The Mahadev Betting App Scam has exposed a sophisticated network of illegal betting websites and money laundering operations.

Synopsis:

The founders of the app, Saurabh Chandrakar and Ravi Uppal, are accused of facilitating online platforms for illegal betting and using benami bank accounts to launder money.
The scandal’s association with Bollywood celebrities has added another layer of intrigue to the case.
As investigations continue, more details are likely to emerge about the extent of the scam and those involved.

RAIPUR (India CSR): The Mahadev Betting App Scam has recently come to light, revealing a complex network of illegal betting websites and money laundering operations. The founders of the app, Saurabh Chandrakar and Ravi Uppal, allegedly operated a syndicate that facilitated online platforms for illegal betting and used a layered web of benami bank accounts to launder money. The scandal has attracted significant attention due to its association with Bollywood celebrities and high-profile events.

Background

The investigation into the Mahadev Betting App Scam was initiated following the extravagant wedding of Sourabh Chandrakar, estimated to have cost Rs 250 crore. The wedding, held in the UAE, was attended by numerous Bollywood stars, raising suspicions about the source of funds. This prompted authorities to delve deeper into Chandrakar’s activities, leading to the discovery of the betting app and its illicit operations.

Money Laundering and UPI

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has been investigating the Mahadev Betting App Scam and has uncovered a novel money laundering method involving UPI IDs1. The founders allegedly used these IDs to facilitate illegal betting transactions and launder money through benami bank accounts. The ED’s investigation has shed light on the extensive network operated by Chandrakar and Uppal, which involved multiple high-value transactions.

Celebrity Involvement

The Mahadev Betting App Scam has also implicated several Bollywood celebrities. The ED conducted raids on celebrity managers who had organized performances at Sourabh Chandrakar’s wedding in Dubai. These managers allegedly received payments from Chandrakar, who is believed to have spent Rs 200 crore on his wedding. The investigation is ongoing, with further scrutiny of celebrities’ involvement in the scandal.

Also Read: Ranbir Kapoor Summoned By ED In Connection With Mahadev Betting App Case

Chattisgarh Connection

The Mahadev Betting App Scam has had a significant impact in Chhattisgarh, with multiple cases registered and arrests made in connection with the scam. As of now, 72 cases have been registered by the Chhattisgarh police, leading to the arrest of 449 suspects from Chhattisgarh, Delhi, Mumbai, and other parts. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has also escalated its investigation into the Mahadev Application (MA) betting case.

According to the information obtained during the investigation, the Mahadev app was operated from more than 30 centers, primarily located in Chhattisgarh. Each of these centers was involved in transactions worth over Rs. 200 crores. The ED’s probe has revealed a novel money laundering method involving UPI IDs and benami bank accounts.