India's Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday called in Shefali Bagga, a well‑known television host, for interrogation regarding the sprawling Mahadev online betting app scandal. The questioning took place at the agency's Raipur office, where officials alleged that Bagga is linked to a man who allegedly runs and promotes multiple illegal betting applications across the country.

Background and Scope of the Case

The Mahadev app investigation has uncovered a network that allegedly involved senior politicians and bureaucrats from Chhattisgarh, with the total proceeds of the alleged crime estimated at around ₹6,000 crore. The scheme reportedly operated through a franchise‑style network of “panels” and “branches” spread across India, funneling illicit wagers via several online platforms.

International Players and Extradition Efforts

Key alleged promoters, Saurabh Chandrakar and Ravi Uppal, are said to have directed the operation from Dubai, while their Indian associates managed on‑ground logistics. Authorities are currently seeking the extradition of Chandrakar, who is believed to be residing in Oman, highlighting the trans‑national dimension of the case.

Previous Arrests and Asset Seizures

So far, the ED has named 74 entities as accused in five charge sheets filed before a special PMLA court in Raipur. The 14th arrest in the case was that of Vikas Garg, chairman of the Ebix Group. Following his arrest, the agency provisionally attached assets worth ₹940.77 crore belonging to Garg, his family, and entities linked to him, including residential properties, land parcels, equity shares, and other securities.

Implications and Future Outlook

The ongoing investigation underscores the urgent need for stricter regulation of online betting platforms in India. If the franchise‑based syndicate is not dismantled, the nation could see a resurgence of similar large‑scale money‑laundering operations, threatening both financial stability and public confidence.