The investigation into the Mahadev Online Book betting app has taken a dramatic turn, with fresh claims that a senior IPS officer may have played a part in protecting the illegal network. The news has left many people wondering how deep corruption might run in the system meant to uphold the law.
Assistant Sub-Inspector Chandrabhushan Verma, a key witness in the case, has alleged that IPS officer Anand Chhabra had close links with Mahadev app promoter Ravi Uppal. According to Verma, Chhabra even flew to London in mid-2023 to meet Uppal, sometimes in the company of Uppal’s family members and other police officials. Investigators from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) are now looking into whether these alleged meetings helped the betting syndicate operate with less interference.
Adding to the suspicion is the financial angle. Officials believe money from the app’s operations may have been moved through hawala channels—a secretive and illegal way of transferring funds without using banks. This trail of hidden money has become a central focus of the investigation.
What’s frustrating for many is the lack of visible progress. The ED had already given the go-ahead under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act to fully investigate the officials named in Verma’s testimony, including Chhabra. Yet, months later, little action seems to have been taken. This silence is fuelling speculation that some people in powerful positions might be getting special protection.
It’s worth noting that so far there is no confirmed link between any former officers of India’s external intelligence agency, RAW, and the Mahadev betting app. The case is still centred around certain police officers, bureaucrats, and political connections.
The bigger picture here is worrying. Cases like this show how illegal betting platforms can keep running when they have backing from influential circles. This not only damages the credibility of law enforcement but also shakes the public’s trust in justice.
As the case moves forward, people will be watching closely. Will the agencies take strong action, even against their own? Or will the matter slowly disappear from the headlines? The answer could reveal a lot about how seriously India tackles corruption.
