Raipur: The return of Saurabh Chandrakar, the alleged kingpin of the Mahadev online betting app, from Oman has ignited a sharp political controversy in Chhattisgarh. Congress has launched a strong attack on the BJP, questioning how the illegal betting network operated with apparent impunity during the period of dual BJP governments at the Centre and in the state, and demanding a thorough probe into possible political protection extending up to the Prime Minister’s Office.
Sushil Anand Shukla, state president of the Congress media department, said the entire episode raises serious questions about the functioning of the previous “double-engine” government. He asked how the Mahadev satta app continued to flourish unchecked when the BJP held power both in New Delhi and Raipur. “When there was a double-engine government in the country and the state, how did this illegal business run so brazenly? Which senior BJP leaders were providing protection to Saurabh Chandrakar?” Shukla said.
He further noted that discussions about linkages reaching the PMO had also been circulating and expressed hope that Chandrakar’s interrogation would bring clarity on these issues. Congress has demanded that the investigation not remain confined to the operators of the betting syndicate but also examine the political and administrative support that allegedly allowed the network to expand.
Chandrakar, a resident of Bhilai in Chhattisgarh, earlier ran a juice shop before entering the online betting business. Along with Ravi Uppal, he is accused of building the Mahadev Online Book network, which took bets on cricket, football and other sports through a system of franchises and branches across the country. Investigators allege that proceeds were routed abroad through layered bank transactions, fictitious accounts and hawala channels. Both the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation are probing the case, including allegations that protection money was paid to government officials.
An Interpol Red Corner Notice had been issued against Chandrakar. On 1 November 2026, a CBI team brought him back to India after his extradition from Oman. He was produced before the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi on 2 November. After the grant of transit remand, he is to be taken to Raipur for further investigation.
Congress leaders say Chandrakar’s presence in India now offers an opportunity to uncover the full extent of political and official patronage behind the multi-crore betting operation. The party has reiterated its demand that the probe establish who provided cover to the network and whether influential figures were involved in shielding it.
The developments have intensified the political temperature in Chhattisgarh, with the opposition pressing for answers on how such a large illegal enterprise operated for years without effective action.
