India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) has reportedly conducted a series of raids on several properties linked to K C Veerendra Puppy, a sitting Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the Indian National Congress in Karnataka.
According to local media, the searches are part of a broadening investigation into an illicit online gaming and betting operation, with authorities acting under the framework of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
This high-profile action against a prominent politician signals an escalation in the government’s efforts to enforce its new, stringent regulations on the online gaming industry.
While the full extent of his involvement is still under investigation, Puppy has been publicly associated with the gaming sector.
The MLA has frequently used his social media channels to promote Puppy’s Casino Gold, a land-based casino located in Goa.
Although his explicit ownership of the establishment has not been confirmed, the connection is so strong in the public sphere that online searches for his name prominently suggest the casino as a related term.
The casino’s official website is purely promotional and does not host iGaming activities, but authorities have not ruled out the existence of other associated online platforms.
The raids follow the recent passage of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, a landmark piece of legislation that effectively bans all forms of real-money online gambling in the country.
The law has outlawed popular verticals such as online poker and rummy, while carving out exceptions only for esports and educational games.
The investigation into a well-known political figure like Puppy, who was elected to the Chitradurga Assembly constituency in 2023 with a significant majority, underscores the seriousness with which federal agencies are tackling violations of the new law.
