KANPUR, UTTARPRADESH: The State Tax Department has launched extensive raids on a dozen establishments belonging to a reputed Kanpur-based paan masala company. This large-scale action follows the recent seizure of company trucks in Kanpur and Barabanki, which revealed significant irregularities. Acting on orders from the Lucknow headquarters, officials moved swiftly to inspect factories, warehouses, and offices linked to the firm.
Raids Follow Truck Seizures and Investigations
Earlier, trucks belonging to the Kanpur-based company were intercepted and examined by the State Tax Department in Kanpur and Barabanki. Authorities reportedly detected discrepancies in documents and goods movement, prompting further scrutiny. Based on these findings, senior officials directed an in-depth investigation into the company’s operations, leading to the formation of multiple inspection teams.
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Multiple Locations Under Scanner
On Wednesday, half a dozen dedicated teams carried out searches at the company’s factories, warehouses, and offices. Officials confirmed that the action is still underway, and the exact nature of irregularities will only be known once the operation concludes. In addition, raids are being conducted at three facilities belonging to a packaging material supplier for the paan masala company, located in Nayaganj, Civil Lines, and Jainpur in Kanpur Countryside.
A Larger Crackdown on the Sector
This action is seen as part of a broader crackdown by the State Tax Department on industries prone to tax evasion and illicit trade practices. The paan masala sector, in particular, has faced increased regulatory attention due to high revenue stakes and past cases of under-reporting. Authorities are expected to release an official statement after the raid’s completion, detailing the scale of violations, if any, and possible legal proceedings. The coordinated operation underscores the State Tax Department’s increasing scrutiny of high-value industries and their supply chains, especially in cases involving suspected financial misconduct.