Operation Mahadev

Operation Mahadev: CBI’s Crackdown on ₹6,000 Crore Online Betting Racket
Key Highlights (30 July 2025 Update)

1. What is Operation Mahadev?
   A pan-India CBI operation targeting an illegal online betting syndicate linked to Mahadev Book App.
   Launched in 2023, it gained momentum in 2024–25 with raids in Chhattisgarh, Delhi, Mumbai, Dubai, and UAE.
   Estimated Scam Size: ₹6,000+ crore (one of India’s biggest online betting rackets).
2. Recent Developments (July 2025)
   CBI arrests 4 accused, including a Dubai-based promoter and a Chhattisgarh politician.
   ED attaches ₹150 crore in assets (luxury cars, properties, crypto holdings).
   Interpol Red Notice issued against mastermind Sourabh Chandrakar (based in UAE).
3. Modus Operandi
   Operated via Mahadev Book App and other betting platforms.
   Hawala links: Money routed via shell companies, cryptocurrency, and Dubai banks.
   Politician-Bookie Nexus: Allegations of bribes to public servants in Chhattisgarh.
4. Agencies Involved
   CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) – Lead agency.
   ED (Enforcement Directorate) – Money laundering probe.
   State Police (Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Telangana).
5. Why is it Significant?
   Largest online betting scam exposed in India.
   Cross-border crime links (India-UAE hawala network).
   Political angle: Opposition alleges involvement of former Chhattisgarh ministers.
6. Static GK Tie-Up (For Exams)
   CBI Founded: 1963 (Delhi Special Police Establishment Act).
   ED’s Role: Enforces PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act), 2002.
   First Online Betting Case in India: 1998 (R. Rajagopal vs. Tamil Nadu).
   Expected Exam Questions
   Which app was linked to Operation Mahadev?
   Ans: Mahadev Book App
   Which agency leads Operation Mahadev?
   Ans: CBI
   Where was the mastermind of the betting racket based?
   Ans: Dubai, UAE
   Conclusion
   Operation Mahadev highlights growing cyber-financial crimes in India and the need for inter-agency coordination. With crypto and hawala complicating probes, it remains a current affairs of 30 july 2025 key case for SSC, UPSC, and banking exams.
   https://pendulumedu.com/current-affairs/daily-current-affairs-30-july-2025