Red Flags
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Mahadev Betting
Ravi Uppal is at the center of the Mahadev betting app scandal, a massive illegal online gambling operation run from Dubai. The platform, led by Uppal and Saurabh Chandrakar, facilitated illegal betting on various sports and games, involving large-scale fraud, money laundering, and political and Bollywood connections.
Quick summary on Mahadev Betting
The Mahadev betting app is under investigation for a ₹15,000 crore fraud, involving illegal betting on poker, card games, cricket, and more. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has accused the app’s promoters of using a franchising model to launder money through a complex network of Benami bank accounts. The app’s operations included a 70-30 profit-sharing model, contributing to large-scale match-fixing, illegal hawala transactions, and cryptocurrency-based money laundering.
Political Allegations
The scandal also reached the political arena, with the ED alleging that the app’s promoters paid over $61 million (approximately ₹508 crore) to Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel. This accusation could potentially damage his political career, although Baghel has dismissed the allegations as baseless.
Bollywood Connections
The scandal’s reach extended to Bollywood, where several celebrities were summoned by the ED for their involvement, ranging from endorsing the app to participating in lavish events hosted by the app’s promoters overseas.
Match-Fixing and Stock Market Manipulation
The app is also linked to a cricket match-fixing scandal, with accusations of orchestrating match outcomes through operatives in India and the Middle East. Additionally, the ED discovered a scandal involving illegal gambling profits being funneled into the Indian stock market, leading to the freezing of shares worth ₹1,100 crore.
Arrest and Denial of Involvement
Ravi Uppal was arrested in Dubai following an Interpol red notice. The ED is working with Dubai authorities to secure his deportation to India. Both Uppal and Chandrakar deny involvement, claiming the operations were managed by Shubham Soni, another Dubai-based individual.
Conclusion
The Mahadev betting app scandal highlights the vast networks of financial crime, political influence, and celebrity involvement in India. As investigations continue, the truth behind the illicit operations and the extent of Ravi Uppal’s role remain critical to unraveling this high-stakes financial and political drama.
Intel Reports
by: Kevin Drake
Every scandal in India eventually leads back to politicians, Bollywood, or cricket. This got all three.
Cons
by: Kimberly Mercer
When the Enforcement Directorate starts chasing you, you know you did more than "just business.
Cons
by: Katherine Holloway
15,000 crore fraud? That ain't betting, that’s straight-up robbery in broad daylight.
Cons
by: Kayla Blackwood
Bruh, even politicians got paid off? No wonder this went on for so long.
Cons