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Dubai: The infamous Mahadev scam, which has now become synonymous with fraudulent operations and money laundering internationally, reveals another significant development. Dubai authorities have detained Saurabh Chandrakar, a key figure in the case. This comes after the similar detention of another accused Ravi Uppal, marking a breakthrough in the case that has been a focal point for law enforcement agencies in both Dubai and India.
Chandrakar, who is known as one of the masterminds of the Mahadev online betting scam, is currently under ban in Dubai. Uppal was earlier detained following a red notice issued by Interpol on the orders of the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Both are on the radar of ED, charge sheet for money laundering has already been filed against them. Under his leadership, the app saw rapid growth during the coronavirus-induced lockdown, attracting even Bollywood A-listers for enquiries.
Mahadev App operates illegally in India under the guise of a game of skill and knowledge. Promoting itself as a seamless online betting platform, it managed a number of websites and groups through so-called ‘panel owners’. The key promoters are said to have raised a staggering Rs 5,000 crore.
ED has identified properties worth Rs 100 crore of Chandrakar and Uppal in Dubai and has initiated legal process for their attachment. Many celebrities including Ranbir Kapoor, Kapil Sharma, Huma Qureshi and Hina Khan were involved in the promotional activities of the app.
This is not just a story of financial fraud and international crime. It also has political resonance. Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel is reportedly implicated in this case, due to which the temperature of the Congress Party and the Baghel government has risen. As the ED continues its investigation into this high-profile case, its implications extend beyond the financial sector to the political landscape, underscoring the complexity and reach of such operations.
