Indian Govt Blocks 22 Illegal Betting Apps, Including Mahadev App

The Indian government’s MeiTY took a significant step by blocking 22 betting apps and websites that were operating illegally. 

Among these, prominent names include Mahadev Book and Reddyannaprestopro. This action was initiated based on the findings of the financial investigation agency, Enforcement Directorate (ED).

These apps and websites were blocked because they were found to be involved in illegal betting activities as well as hawala transactions for Indian political parties. 

The investigation by the ED revealed that these platforms were not only allowing unlawful betting but were also linked to money laundering activities. 

The crackdown on these apps is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to curb illegal online betting and financial crimes.

In connection with the Mahadev Book app, two individuals were taken into custody. One is Bhim Singh Yadav, a constable in the Chhattisgarh Police, and the other is Asim Das. They were arrested under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) for their involvement in these unlawful operations.

The Union Minister, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, expressed criticism towards the Congress party-led Chhattisgarh government. 

He pointed out that the state government had the authority to recommend the shutdown of such illegal websites and apps under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act. However, they did not take any action despite investigating the matter for the last 1.5 years. 

Also Read: Did Congress Really Collect ₹508 Crore Illegaly For Chhattisgarh Elections?

The Union Minister emphasized that the state government could have made similar requests to block these platforms but failed to do so. The only request received was from the ED, and it was promptly acted upon.