Bhubaneswar, October 17: In a major crackdown, more than 300 persons were arrested for allegedly participating in gambling activities in Ganjam district, Odisha, over the last ten days.
Police seized unaccounted cash amounting to over ₹12.98 lakh, along with 115 mobile phones, 56 motorcycles, and three cars, according to senior officials.
A total of 54 cases have been registered under the Orissa Prevention of Gambling Act.
The raids, which targeted various locations in the district, occurred during the festive period following Dussehra, extending until Kumar Purnima, a time when gambling activities are traditionally rampant in this district.
Despite religious connotations, with people worshipping Goddess Mahalaxmi during the day, nighttime gambling remains a popular but illegal practice.
Locals claim that gambling is considered part of the Kumar Purnima celebrations, with many believing that it brings blessings from the goddess. “Many people wear new clothes and gamble, thinking they’ll receive Goddess Laxmi’s blessings,” a local resident shared. However, the police have been adamant in their efforts to curtail these activities.
Berhampur Superintendent of Police Sarvan Vivek M stated, “We can’t allow gambling in the name of tradition,” while Ganjam SP Suvendu Patra assured that the special drive against gambling dens would continue for several more days. Ganjam district comprises two police districts, Berhampur and Ganjam, both of which have been actively involved in the crackdown.
