Corruption
7 IAS, 13 IPS Officers of UP Under Income Tax Radar for Benami Properties
In Uttar Pradesh, the Income Tax Department has initiated an investigation into large land purchases involving bureaucrats and political figures. A total of 242 individuals, including IAS and IPS officers, are under scrutiny for questionable transactions linked to high-value properties.
The Income Tax Department has launched an extensive investigation into large-scale land acquisitions in Uttar Pradesh, bringing several senior officials and political leaders under scrutiny. The department’s Benami Property Cell is examining land purchases made over the past six years. Prominent names include eight IAS officers, 13 IPS officers, seven politicians, and one retired IAS officer.
The Investigation Process
The probe focuses on purchases of plots exceeding 1,000 square meters, especially those in prime locations where property values are significantly high. The department is matching these acquisitions with the owners’ Income Tax Returns (ITRs) to determine whether the properties were disclosed. Authorities are analyzing the payment methods, bank transactions, and the connections between property buyers and their relatives.
According to sources, the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) provided a list of 242 individuals involved in such transactions. This list includes 16 years of data, although the primary investigation targets activities from the past six years.
What’s Under Review?
Key points being examined by the Benami Property Cell include:
- Whether the land buyers declared the purchases in their ITRs.
- The payment modes used in transactions.
- The connection between bank accounts and property buyers.
- The number of assets declared in the ITRs, along with supporting documents.
High-Level Monitoring
A special team, led by senior officials, has been formed to carry out this investigation. Young officers have been tasked with detailed scrutiny, and the findings are being regularly shared with the department’s headquarters. Inputs from other departments have also been sought to strengthen the investigation.
Significance
This probe highlights the increasing vigilance of the Income Tax Department against benami transactions and undisclosed assets. By scrutinizing high-value land deals, the department aims to address potential financial irregularities and uphold transparency in property transactions.
The ongoing investigation may bring to light widespread irregularities and could lead to significant legal actions against those found guilty. This case serves as a stern warning for individuals attempting to evade tax laws and conceal wealth through benami transactions.
