Income Tax Department Conducts Extensive Raids on Baba Group Premises
The Income Tax (I-T) department executed a significant operation on Thursday, targeting 40 premises associated with Baba Agro Food Limited and Baba Food Processing India Limited. This action was taken against their owners and associates across Jharkhand and Bihar, following suspicions of substantial tax evasion.
Scope and Locations of the Raids
According to official sources, the raids were conducted by the I-T department’s Ranchi investigation wing. The operations spanned approximately 20 locations in Ranchi and Jamshedpur within Jharkhand, as well as various premises in Aurangabad, Gaya, and Patna in Bihar. The scrutiny extended to the offices and properties of the companies, their owners—Yogesh Sahu and Gyan Sahu—and their associates.
Personnel and Investigation Details
The operation involved a massive deployment of over 450 personnel, including I-T officials, 15 forensic science laboratory teams, CRPF forces, and local police. During such raids, teams typically investigate various aspects such as:
- Properties of the companies and their owners
- Unaccounted wealth and assets
- Utilization of black money
- Other financial irregularities
Specific details regarding seizures or findings from the first day were not disclosed by officials, but sources indicated that the raids were ongoing into the evening and might continue for several more days.
Additional Operations Against Paddy Traders
In a related development, I-T teams also carried out operations against paddy traders who purchase from farmers. So far, 15 individuals have been tracked for violations of I-T rules, highlighting the broader scope of the investigation into agricultural trade practices.
Background on the Baba Group
Baba Agro Food Limited is primarily involved in rice production, while Baba Food Processing India Limited specializes in manufacturing white flour. The Baba Group holds the distinction of being the largest rice producer in Jharkhand, making this raid a significant event in the region's economic landscape.
Authorities have emphasized that further revelations about the case will be made as the investigation progresses, with a focus on ensuring compliance with tax regulations and curbing financial malpractices.
