Police in Indore have arrested 18 individuals following a raid on a farmhouse where authorities allege an illegal gambling operation was taking place.
The early morning operation was carried out by Madhya Pradesh Police at a property located in the Mhow area, within the jurisdiction of Manpur police station.
According to officials, the raid was launched after officers received a tip-off indicating that gambling activities had been taking place at the site for some time.
Police reported that the farmhouse, identified as Kothi Niwas in Awalipura village, was allegedly hosting a gathering where individuals were playing card games. When officers arrived, the main entrance to the property was locked, prompting the team to enter from the rear of the premises.
Authorities said several individuals were found playing cards on the veranda of the farmhouse. Officers subsequently surrounded the area and detained those present.
During the operation, police arrested 18 suspects, while six others reportedly fled the scene before they could be apprehended. Investigators also seized cash and other items believed to be connected to the gambling activity.
According to police estimates, ₹1,367,971 ($14,800) in cash was recovered along with 52 sets of playing cards, 10 additional decks, 30 mobile phones and two vehicles. The total value of the seized assets is estimated at approximately ₹2,867,971.
Police sources stated that the property where the raid took place is registered in the name of Vandana Vaidya and her husband, Ambrish Vaidya. Vandana Vaidya currently serves as Managing Director of the Finance Development Corporation.
Authorities said they have not confirmed whether Vaidya or her family were directly involved in the alleged gambling activity.
Investigators believe the operation may have been organised by Jagdish Rathore, who is currently being sought by police.
The raid is the latest in a series of gambling-related developments across India. Elsewhere, Goa's government has proposed a 200% increase in fees for new casino licences amid public opposition to a planned large offshore casino vessel on the Mandovi River, while a pro bono legal team is separately preparing a court challenge against permissions granted for a new offshore casino operated by Delta Corp.
Under Indian law, most forms of organised gambling are prohibited unless specifically authorised by state legislation, such as licensed casinos or lotteries
