Never assume malice when incompetence / laziness / greed are more than enough to explain things. Mindy Kaling hasn't been funny for years but she's well connected. Focus groups have at least passing awareness and interest in the Scooby-Doo franchise, especially in key age groups. Edgy reboots of popular IPs are the lazy way to tap into a preexisting pool of potential viewers. Streaming services are keen to follow the Disney+ model of throwing as much shit on the wall as possible to see what sticks. The entertainment industry has really lost touch with how the art and workmanship of writing / storytelling are crucial. Add these all together and it's more than enough to explain how Velma could get made.