MeitY Blocks 22 Illegal Betting Apps and Websites, Including Mahadev Book App

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has taken decisive action by issuing orders to block 22 illegal betting apps and websites, notably targeting Mahadev Book Online and Reddyannaprestopro. This significant move follows investigations conducted by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) into an illicit betting app syndicate.

Let's delve into the details of this crackdown and the implications.

Unveiling the Crackdown

MeitY's Action: Under Section 69A of the IT Act, MeitY has unleashed orders to halt the operations of 22 illegal betting apps and websites. These actions result from investigations spearheaded by the Enforcement Directorate, which uncovered an extensive network of illegal betting apps.

Mahadev Book Scandal

Mahadev Book App Investigation: The ED conducted a series of raids that revealed the illegal activities associated with the Mahadev Book App. This betting app came under scrutiny due to its unlawful operations and allegations that its promoters had made substantial payments to Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, totaling approximately Rs 508 crore.

Denials and Counterclaims

Political Response: The Congress party has swiftly dismissed the allegations against Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel as an attempt to tarnish his reputation. They maintain that the Chhattisgarh government had the authority to recommend the closure of the Mahadev Book App under Section 69A of the IT Act but had not done so, as they had been investigating the matter for the past 1.5 years.

Frozen Assets and Arrests

Money Laundering Case: As part of the ongoing probe, the ED has seized assets worth Rs 417 crore linked to the Mahadev App online betting case. Additionally, the agency has arrested at least four individuals, including a constable in the Chhattisgarh Police force, Bhim Singh Yadav, and Asim Das. These arrests are based on the commission of money laundering offenses.

International Connections

UAE Central Office: Investigations have revealed that the Mahadev App is operated from a central head office in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The company leveraged an online book betting application to onboard new users and launder money through various benami bank accounts.

Government's Regulatory Changes

Online Real Money Gaming: In alignment with recent amendments to IT rules, the government is determined to disallow the operation of any online real money gaming platform or website that includes betting or wagering as an outcome. The objective is to ensure that online gaming companies adhere to Indian laws and safeguard users from potential harm related to betting or gambling outcomes in games.

Self-Regulatory Mechanism

Pending Establishment: The government has also notified the establishment of a self-regulatory mechanism to oversee games involving real money that do not promote betting or gambling outcomes. However, the formation of an approved self-regulatory organization (SRO) is still pending.

Relevant and Latest Facts:

• The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) blocked 22 illegal betting apps and websites on August 6, 2023, under Section 69A of the IT Act.
• The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has frozen and seized assets worth Rs 417 crore in connection with the Mahadev App online betting case.
• The ED has arrested at least four people, including a constable in the Chhattisgarh Police force, in connection with the Mahadev Book case.
• The government has amended the IT rules to prohibit online real money gaming involving betting or wagering.
• The government has notified a self-regulatory mechanism for online gaming involving real money but not promoting betting or gambling.

Overall, the Indian government is taking a tough stance against illegal betting and online gaming. The recent IT rule amendments and the blocking of 22 illegal betting apps and websites are a testament to the government's commitment to protecting users and ensuring compliance with Indian laws.