With the commencement of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 in March 2024, there have been cases of illegal betting activities in the industrial hub of Ludhiana. Cricket bookies in the city are making profits, while victims who are lured by the temptation of quick money are losing their hard-earned money. Despite the long-standing presence of cricket betting in the city, law enforcement has yet to dismantle any major networks.

As reported by The Tribune, Commissioner of Police, Kuldeep Singh Chahal, issued directives to police personnel, highlighting the need to address bookies operating within Ludhiana. Chahal asserted, “The illegal trade has no place in the industrial hub,” urging citizens to abstain from participating in illegal betting activities to avoid legal repercussions.

Chahal has ordered the police to seize properties acquired through cases of cricket betting, emphasizing the initiation of attachment proceedings upon the discovery of such assets. ADCP (Crime) Amandeep Singh Brar reiterated the commitment to stopping illegal activities, including cricket betting, within the city limits. He outlined the procedure for initiating property attachment proceedings through collaboration with the Enforcement Directorate (ED) upon uncovering assets acquired through criminal means.

Rahul Goyal of SBS Nagar was apprehended by the CIA wing of the Ludhiana Police Commissionerate for directing bets on ongoing IPL matches. However, two individuals managed to avoid capture. Seized from the suspect were incriminating items including a laptop, five mobile phones, and ₹5,000 in cash.

The involvement of people of Punjab, including Ludhiana, has also been seen in illegal activities in the ongoing Mahadev app case. A young bettor disclosed the practices done by bookies to evade detection, highlighting their cautious selection of trusted individuals for betting transactions. Transactions are conducted covertly, with payments made in cash and delivered discreetly to punters’ homes.

Young people are being warned not to get involved in betting on cricket. They’re being told that it’s risky, and the players have an advantage in the secret world of illegal gambling. During the IPL season, authorities are keeping watch to stop illegal betting networks in Ludhiana. They’re emphasizing the importance of the public’s help in stopping these activities.