12-Apr-2025,02:30 PM In a sensational political development, the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh has accused senior Congress leader and former CM Bhupesh Baghel of accepting “protection money” linked to the now-infamous Mahadev betting app scam. This explosive revelation has added a new dimension to the ongoing investigations and has triggered a fresh wave of political controversy ahead of upcoming elections.
Who is Bhupesh Baghel and Why is He in the Spotlight?
Bhupesh Baghel Political Standing in Chhattisgarh
Bhupesh Baghel, a seasoned Congress leader, served as the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh from 2018 to 2023. Known for his grassroots connect and welfare-centric governance, Baghel has been one of the Congress party’s prominent faces in central India. His tenure as CM was marked by ambitious schemes aimed at rural empowerment, tribal welfare, and farmer upliftment.
However, recent allegations by the current BJP-led state government have thrown his legacy into question, especially regarding his alleged role in shielding the operations of the Mahadev betting app.
The Mahadev Betting App Scam – A Brief Background
What is the Mahadev App and Why is it Controversial?
The Mahadev betting app allegedly facilitated illegal online gambling and betting activities across India. According to enforcement agencies, the app operated a vast underground network involving hawala transactions, data manipulation, and money laundering.
Several high-profile arrests have been made in connection with the app, and investigations suggest a staggering financial scale running into hundreds of crores. The involvement of celebrities and promoters in events linked to Mahadev further deepened the scandal.
Allegations Against Bhupesh Baghel
CM Claims Baghel Took Crores as “Protection Money”
In a press conference that stunned the political corridors of Raipur, the sitting Chhattisgarh CM alleged that Bhupesh Baghel received crores of rupees as “protection money” from the operators of the Mahadev app during his tenure. According to him, this money ensured that no legal or police action would be initiated against the app’s operators while the scam flourished under the administration’s nose.
The CM added, “Evidence and digital trails point to transactions made to senior political figures. We are not going to shield anyone, regardless of their stature.”
Bhupesh Baghel Responds to the Accusations
“Desperate Attempt to Divert Attention,” Says Former CM
Bhupesh Baghel strongly denied all allegations, calling them “fabricated” and politically motivated. He stated that the current government is misusing investigative agencies and spreading misinformation to malign his reputation before the elections.
Speaking to the media, Baghel said, “These accusations are a classic diversion tactic. I welcome a fair investigation by an independent agency, but the BJP should stop weaponizing the state machinery for personal vendetta.”
Political Fallout of the Allegations
Congress Rallies Behind Bhupesh Baghel
The Congress party has come out in full support of Bhupesh Baghel, terming the allegations baseless and part of a smear campaign. Senior Congress leaders in Delhi have alleged that the BJP is using the scam to deflect attention from economic distress and rising unemployment.
Party spokespersons reiterated that the BJP itself has failed to investigate the Mahadev scam effectively since coming to power in Chhattisgarh.
The Role of Enforcement Agencies
ED and CBI on the Trail
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has already been probing the financial trail of the Mahadev app scam. Officials have hinted at recovering digital evidence pointing toward massive hawala operations and international money laundering. Now, with Bhupesh Baghel’s name being dragged into the controversy, all eyes are on whether the ED or Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) will formally summon him for questioning.
Sources suggest that investigators are verifying the “protection money” angle with digital payment receipts, WhatsApp chats, and statements from accused operatives.
Public Reaction and Media Frenzy
A Divided Sentiment in Chhattisgarh
The public response to the allegations against Bhupesh Baghel has been mixed. While BJP supporters have demanded strict legal action, Congress loyalists maintain that Baghel is being unfairly targeted.
The media has been abuzz with debates, panel discussions, and prime-time coverage. News channels are featuring leaked audio clips and documents alleged to be linked to the scam, though none of them have been officially verified yet.
Election Implications
Will the Allegations Hurt Bhupesh Baghel’s Prospects?
With elections around the corner, this scandal could play a significant role in swaying public opinion. While Bhupesh Baghel remains a strong contender for the Congress party in the state, the opposition hopes to capitalize on these accusations to turn voters against him.
Political analysts suggest that the final impact will depend on the outcome of official investigations and the Congress party’s strategy in countering the narrative.
Legal Outlook and What’s Next?
Will There Be a Formal FIR Against Bhupesh Baghel?
As of now, no formal FIR has been registered against Bhupesh Baghel, but the state government has hinted at opening further inquiries based on new evidence. If the ED or CBI decides to move forward with a notice or summons, it could drastically escalate the matter.
Both parties are bracing for what may become one of the most controversial political showdowns in Chhattisgarh’s recent history.
Conclusion: A Political Storm Brews in Chhattisgarh
The Mahadev betting app scam has already been one of the most high-profile financial scandals in India this year. With the latest accusations directed at Bhupesh Baghel, the controversy has now assumed serious political dimensions. While investigations continue, the truth remains tangled in political narratives, accusations, and denials.
Whether Bhupesh Baghel is proven guilty or not, this issue has undoubtedly shifted the dynamics of Chhattisgarh politics—possibly with long-term consequences for the state and national level leadership.
Source: ANI
