Centre Blocks 22 Illegal Betting Platforms on ED's Request

The Centre has issued blocking orders against 22 illegal betting platforms, including Mahadev app and Reddyannaprestopro, on request of Enforcement Directorate, an official statement said on Sunday.Minister of State for Electronics and IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar alleged the Chhattisgarh government did not send any request to block these platforms despite having powers to do so.

Blocking Orders Issued

Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology MeitY has issued blocking orders against 22 illegal betting apps & websites, including Mahadev Book and Reddyannaprestopro, the statement said.The action follows investigations conducted by the Enforcement Directorate ED against illegal betting app syndicate and subsequent raids on Mahadev Book in Chhattisgarh, revealing the apps unlawful operations, it added.

Powers to Block

Chhattisgarh Government had all the power to recommend shutting down of website/app under Sec 69A IT Act. However, they did not do so and no such request is made by the State Government while they have been investigating it for last 1.5 years. In fact, the first and only request has been received from ED and it has been acted upon. Nothing prevented Chhattisgarh Government from making similar requests, Chandrasekhar said.

Arrests Made

Accused Bhim Singh Yadav, working as a constable in the Chhattisgarh police force, and one Asim Das are currently in custody, having been arrested for violatingPrevention of Money Laundering Act PMLA, the statement said.

The blocking of these illegal betting platforms is a significant step in the fight against online gambling in India. The government is committed to taking all necessary measures to protect citizens from the harms of illegal gambling.