Ashoknagar: Once a poor goat herder, Azad Khan from Ashoknagar has risen to become one of Madhya Pradesh’s most notorious “satta” (betting) kings. Starting with humble beginnings, Khan learned the art of betting slips from his father and leveraged the IPL era to build a multi-crore online betting empire.
Early Life and Introduction to Satta
Azad Khan was born into a poor family in Ashoknagar. His father, Alim Khan, also known as Pappu, worked as a tailor while running local betting slips. Young Azad helped herd the family’s goats, and during his free time, observed his father handling betting slips. He soon learned the trade, and in his father’s absence, began managing the operations himself, marking his first steps into the world of gambling.
Transition from Offline to Online Betting
Until 2003, Khan operated offline betting. During the IPL that year, he discovered online betting and established contacts through familiar “sattori” networks. With a strong grasp of the betting business, he quickly adapted to the online platform. While initially he earned commissions through other operators’ IDs, the lure of higher profits led him to operate independently.
Building a Network and Luring Customers
Azad Khan created his first online betting ID, VTX991, attracting users with the promise of high returns while charging only a 2% commission. Gradually, he developed a network of agents, expanding from Ashoknagar to Guna, across Madhya Pradesh, and eventually into Rajasthan.
Diversifying Wealth
Alongside betting, Khan ventured into real estate, investing his earnings in land trading and partnerships in Ashoknagar. He also established the Azad Palace Hotel and built a luxurious farmhouse in his village, frequently hosting grand events.
Foray into Politics
Seeking influence alongside wealth, Khan brought his brother, Rashid Khan (Chinna), into politics. Rashid is currently a councilor in Ashoknagar and actively participates in social work. Azad also cultivated relationships with local legislators and ministers, occasionally providing election funding in exchange for protection.
Legal Troubles
Khan’s troubles escalated after an IPL betting case in Guna. In April, Guna police filed FIRs against ten operators, including Khan, who was later added as an accused. His initial bail application was rejected, but the High Court eventually granted him bail five days ago. Authorities continue to act against his illegal properties, and last month, his arms license was revoked, requiring him to surrender his firearm.
Investigation Reveals Deeper Networks
Police investigations revealed that Khan operated using an international SIM, though the origin remains unclear. His most trusted associate, Ejaz Khan, managed operations in Guna.
Khan’s operations have been linked to the suicides of two Ashoknagar gold merchants, Nandkishore and Rameshwar Soni, on May 15, 2025. Investigations suggested pressure from loan sharks, with Azad Khan’s network allegedly involved. In December 2025, police filed FIRs against his brother Rashid and his driver in connection with the case.
Recently, authorities demolished the illegal portion of Khan’s hotel in Ashoknagar’s main market, citing regulatory violations, with over 100 police personnel and municipal officials overseeing the action.
From tending goats to ruling a betting empire worth crores, Azad Khan’s story is a stark reminder of ambition, risk, and the thin line between wealth and the law.
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