Election Commission’s Data on Electoral Bond Scheme Raises Eyebrows as Future Gaming Private Limited Tops Donations with ₹1,368 Crore. The recent release of data by the Election Commission regarding the electoral bond scheme introduced in 2018 has drawn significant attention due to the substantial donations made by various conglomerates to India’s political parties. Future Gaming Private Limited, founded by Santiago Martin, emerged at the forefront by donating ₹1,368 crore.
Santiago Martin, often dubbed the ‘lottery king’, has an intriguing background. Born in 1961, Martin worked as a daily wage laborer in Myanmar during his youth before returning to India in the 1980s. Settling in Coimbatore, he initially worked in a tea shop in Tatabad. However, he soon ventured into selling lottery tickets, capitalizing on the growing demand for them.
In 1987, at the age of 26, Martin expanded his lottery business by opening five lottery shops in Coimbatore and simultaneously tied the knot with his wife. Subsequently, he began printing tickets and launched his own lottery business, witnessing rapid growth and success.
Over the years, Martin faced challenges from regional players but managed to establish Future as the market leader in Tamil Nadu. However, his journey was not without controversy. In 2003, then-Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa banned the lottery trade in the state, prompting Martin to explore opportunities in other regions like Karnataka, Kerala, the northeast, and Bhutan.
Despite his success, Martin encountered legal troubles, including allegations of political donations and financial irregularities. His association with political figures like M Karunanidhi further fueled speculation and controversies. In 2011, the AIADMK government’s return to power led to Martin’s arrest on multiple charges, including land grabbing and illegal lottery sales. However, he was released in 2012 after eight months in jail.
Following his arrest, Martin’s family members ventured into politics, with his wife joining the Indhiya Jananayaka Katchi (IJK), his elder son affiliating with the BJP, and his brother forming his own party. Despite his legal battles, Martin has remained focused on business ventures in real estate, education, and media.
Despite controversies and legal scrutiny, Martin’s businesses have contributed significantly to tax revenues in India. However, recent investigations and controversies surrounding him have not deterred his resolve, with observers speculating that he may find a way to navigate through the challenges.
