Congress leader and former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the Mahadev betting app case, alleging that recent developments have exposed links to individuals associated with the ruling party. He questioned why several influential names have not yet come under investigation despite the ongoing crackdown.
Baghel Cites Earlier Crackdown in Chhattisgarh
Addressing the media, Baghel said his government had initiated action against the Mahadev betting network long before the issue gained national attention. According to him, multiple FIRs were filed, hundreds of accused were arrested, thousands of bank accounts were frozen and electronic devices were seized during investigations conducted across several states.
He said, “The initial action regarding the Mahadev App took place in Chhattisgarh; around 72 FIRs were registered, hundreds of people were arrested, and thousands of bank accounts were seized. Gadgets and laptops were confiscated, and operations were conducted across multiple states.”
‘Now BJP’s Own Leader Has Been Named’
Baghel alleged that while the previous Congress government in Chhattisgarh was accused by the Centre of protecting the betting syndicate, recent reports have changed the narrative.
He claimed, “At that time, the central government accused us of shielding the Mahadev betting racket. Now, however, news has emerged that Vikas Garg, the Chairman of the Economic Affairs Cell of the Delhi BJP unit, has been implicated in the Mahadev App case, and assets worth Rs 904 crore have been seized.”
Questions Raised Over Central Government’s Role
The Congress leader also questioned why the Union government had failed to block the alleged betting platforms despite having the authority to do so.
Baghel said, “The responsibility for shutting down such apps lies with the Government of India; they had the authority but took no action. Now the reason is clear—their own people are involved.”
Demands Investigation Into Senior Officials
Baghel further demanded that authorities investigate former officials Navneet Sehgal and Hiren Joshi, alleging they were once highly influential within the government.
He stated, “I demand an investigation into Navneet Sehgal and Hiren Joshi. They must be investigated. Why hasn’t the ED reached them?”
The former Chief Minister also questioned why individuals allegedly operating from abroad have not been brought back to India despite previous requests for Look Out Circulars.
He added, “When we were in power in Chhattisgarh, we had requested the issuance of a Look Out Circular. Even with the current double-engine government, those individuals have not been brought back to the country. Why is the Government of India failing to take action on the Mahadev betting case?”
The Centre has not officially responded to Baghel’s latest allegations. The Mahadev betting app investigation continues under multiple central agencies.
Q1. What did Bhupesh Baghel allege?
A: He alleged that people linked to the BJP have surfaced in the Mahadev App case.
Q2. Who did Baghel demand should be investigated?
A: He sought a probe into Vikas Garg, Navneet Sehgal and Hiren Joshi.
Q3. What is the Mahadev App case?
A: It is an alleged illegal online betting and money laundering case under investigation.
Q4. What action did Baghel seek from the Centre?
A: He demanded a comprehensive investigation and action against all accused, including those abroad.
