IT raids multiple locations in Odisha; tax evasion, liquor deals on radar

In a significant crackdown on alleged tax evasion and illicit liquor deals, the Income Tax (IT) Department has executed extensive raids on properties associated with prominent liquor businessman Bikram Sahu across multiple locations in Odisha.

Simultaneously, similar operations targeted the residences of businessmen Tirupati Sahukar and Someshwar Sahukar in Paralakhemundi.

Raids on Bikram Sahu's Properties:

The IT Department, on Thursday, initiated searches at several establishments linked to Bikram Sahu in areas such as Angul, Talcher, Kamakhyanagar in Dhenkanal, Paralakhemundi, Puri, and Bhubaneswar.

The raids are part of an ongoing investigation into suspected tax evasion and financial irregularities. Sources indicated that authorities are currently examining financial records, including bank statements, account books, and other relevant documents, to uncover potential discrepancies.

Till the last reports, authorities had yet to reveal specific details regarding the findings.

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Operations in Paralakhemundi:

In a parallel operation, IT officials conducted raids on the residences of brothers Tirupati and Someshwar Sahukar in Paralakhemundi this morning.

A dedicated 12-member team was deployed to scrutinize their financial dealings, focusing on their involvement in the liquor and transport sectors. The raids are aimed to reveal any undisclosed income and tax violations through a thorough review of the seized materials.

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Context of Recent IT Raids in Odisha:

These recent actions align with a broader initiative by the IT Department to address tax evasion within the state's liquor industry. Notably, in December 2023, a massive raid on an Odisha-based distillery group resulted in the seizure of Rs 353 crore in cash over a five-day operation, marking one of the largest cash recoveries in the department's history.