Kumar Bahukhandi
RAIPUR : The Chhattisgarh Government has decided to transfer cases related to the alleged Mahadev betting app scam to the Central Bureau of Investigation, Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma said on Monday August 26 . The Government issued a notification approving the CBI probe last week, he said. The alleged scam became the focal point of the BJP’s campaign during the Lok Sabha elections in Chhattisgarh as prominent accused named in the FIR include former Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel among others. Notably, the Enforcement Directorate has been probing money laundering cases linked to the Mahadev app scam, which came to light when the Baghel-led Congress Government was in power, for more than a year.
“70 cases related to the alleged Mahadev app scam were lodged at different police stations in Chhattisgarh and one case is with the Economic Offences Wing (EOW). We have decided to hand over all these cases to the CBI and a notification has been issued,” Sharma told reporters. This issue (Mahadev betting app scam) is a multi-state matter and not restricted to Chhattisgarh, he said, adding that some kingpins are based in foreign countries. The Central Bureau of Investigation( CBI) will seriously investigate this matter. “No leniency will be shown and strict action will be taken. I believe (accused persons) based abroad will be brought back,” he said. The notification issued by the Chhattisgarh’s Home Department dated August 22 mentioned the Government’s consent to the extension of powers and jurisdiction for the entire State to Delhi Special Police Establishment members to investigate and inquire into offences registered against perpetrators who operate and indulge with Mahadev online gambling platforms and other associated platforms.
