Massive income tax raids in Nuapada on final day of Bypoll campaign

In a dramatic turn of events on the final day of campaigning for the Nuapada by-election, the Income Tax Department on Sunday conducted extensive raids across multiple locations in the district, sending shockwaves through political and business circles.

According to reports, IT officials carried out a marathon search operation at the residence of BJD leader and party general secretary Manoj Mishra in Komna. Mishra, a former Chairman of the Komna Block, is regarded as a key political figure in the region. The raids reportedly lasted for several hours as officials examined financial documents, electronic devices, and other materials from the premises.

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In a parallel operation, IT teams also raided the residence of prominent businessman Ankit Singhania on Khariar Road, further intensifying the buzz surrounding the coordinated crackdown.

The timing of these raids, coinciding with the closing hours of the bypoll campaign, has sparked widespread speculation and political debate. While officials have not yet disclosed details of the investigation, the move has drawn attention from both ruling and opposition parties.

Meanwhile, Odisha BJP President Manmohan Samal, addressing a public meeting on Sunday, launched a sharp attack on the BJD, accusing the ruling party of indulging in ‘cheap politics’ and avoiding key development issues. Samal condemned the use of words like ‘traitor’ and ‘vote theft’, urging for a more respectful and issue-based political discourse.