Why Did IT Conduct Raids at 20 Locations Linked to Late Odisha Health Minister Naba Das?
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Synopsis
In a major development, the Income Tax Department has launched extensive raids at 20 locations linked to the late Odisha Health Minister Naba Kishore Das. This operation is part of a larger investigation into alleged financial irregularities. Stay tuned as we uncover the details behind this high-profile case and its implications.
Key Takeaways
- IT Department raids at 20 locations linked to Naba Kishore Das.
- Investigation focuses on alleged financial misconduct and tax evasion.
- Raids involve 180 IT officers and multiple security personnel.
- Previous scrutiny of the Das family led to this new investigation.
- Properties of close associates are also under investigation.
Bhubaneswar, June 19 (NationPress) The Income Tax Department has initiated concurrent raids at 20 locations associated with the late Odisha Health Minister and prominent BJD figure, Naba Kishore Das, amplifying its investigation into suspected financial misconduct.
This extensive operation commenced at 5 AM, covering various sites in Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, and New Delhi, as per information sourced on Thursday.
While the late minister’s residence in Bhubaneswar remained locked and was not inspected, IT teams proceeded with searches at his previous home in the Modipara area of Sambalpur, D-Bar in Bhalupali, and Hotel Niki — properties believed to be connected to Naba Kishore Das’ business dealings.
Reports suggest that Income Tax officials are also conducting searches at the residence of one of the late minister’s business partners.
Sources indicate that these raids form part of a broader inquiry into alleged tax evasion and disproportionate assets, particularly related to coal and ash transport operations.
A total of 180 Income Tax officers, along with 40 CRPF personnel, 60 vehicles, and a scientific analysis team, were mobilized for this coordinated search effort.
Former Jharsuguda MLA Dipali Das, the late minister’s daughter, was not in the city during the operation. Her office was closed, but she has been contacted and is said to be on her way back.
This is not the first instance of scrutiny for the Das family. Previous requests for documentation from the family had received unsatisfactory responses, leading to this new round of raids by the IT Department.
Properties owned by Dipali Das' uncle and close associates are also under investigation.
As of now, the IT Department has not issued any official statement regarding the ongoing searches.
It’s important to note that earlier in January, the IT Department conducted similar raids at various properties linked to the family of the late BJD leader in Sambalpur.
Naba Kishore Das’ brother, Brajakishore Das, a prominent contractor, is also under scrutiny from the IT Department concerning financial irregularities.
Point of View
The ongoing raids highlight the importance of transparency and accountability in public service. With the Income Tax Department intensifying its scrutiny of high-profile figures, it serves as a reminder that no one is above the law. The focus on financial irregularities is a crucial step towards ensuring integrity within the political landscape.
NationPress
19/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the IT raids on Naba Das's properties?
The raids were initiated as part of an investigation into alleged financial irregularities, including tax evasion and disproportionate assets connected to coal and ash transportation operations.
How many locations are being raided?
A total of 20 locations linked to the late Minister Naba Kishore Das are currently under investigation.
Is there any response from the IT Department regarding the raids?
As of now, the IT Department has not issued any official statements concerning the ongoing operations.
What properties are being searched during the raids?
The searches are taking place at various properties including the late minister's residences and business-related locations.
Who else is under scrutiny apart from Naba Kishore Das?
The investigation also includes Naba Kishore Das's brother, Brajakishore Das, and properties owned by close associates and family members.
