Odisha Cash Haul Marks Historic Black Money Seizure in India
In a significant crackdown on illicit financial activities, the Income Tax (I-T) Department intensified operations against an Odisha-based liquor distillery group and linked entities, including Boudh Distillery Pvt Ltd. The ongoing raids across Odisha, Jharkhand, and West Bengal have resulted in the potential seizure of an unprecedented ₹290 crore, potentially marking India’s highest-ever black money haul in a single operation, according to PTI sources.
Commencing on Wednesday, the raids focused on Boudh Distillery Pvt Ltd, linked to Congress MP Dheeraj Sahu. The company’s management, headed by Sahu’s son Ritesh Sahu and elder brother Uday Shanker Prasad, manufactures extra-neutral alcohol—a primary raw material for alcoholic beverages.
As of now, over ₹250 crore in cash has been confiscated, with an additional estimated ₹50 crore recovered from Sudapara in Bolangir district on Saturday, where 20 bagloads were seized from a countrymade liquor manufacturer’s residence. The I-T Department, bolstered by approximately 40 counting machines and increased personnel, continues its rigorous counting process initiated on December 6.
The tax department remains steadfast in uncovering the truth, interrogating company officials and associated individuals. Despite political insinuations, both Boudh Distillery Pvt Ltd and Baldeo Sahu & Group of Companies have yet to provide comments on the matter.
This concerted effort signifies a resolute stance against financial malpractice, reinforcing the government’s commitment to curbing illicit financial activities and upholding transparency.
