Income tax officials have launched a massive search operation at over 70 locations connected to DMK MP Jagadratsakan’s house and hotel in Chennai. The search, which began on October 5th, includes Jagatrakshagan’s residence in Adyar and his star hotel in D. Nagar.
In addition to these locations, the Income Tax Department has also conducted a search at a college in Poontamalli. When officials attempted to search Jagatrakshagan’s house in Pattabiram near Avadi, they found it locked. They were forced to break the lock to gain entry. The search operation extends beyond the MP’s properties, targeting the homes of his relatives and friends as well.
This search operation comes after a complaint was filed against Jagadratsakan and his family for alleged illegal money transfer in 2020. Enforcement officers had previously conducted raids at his residence and other associated locations. Moreover, the enforcement department has frozen assets worth Rs 89.19 crore linked to illegal foreign investments made by Jagatrakshagan.
The Income Tax Department remains tight-lipped about the specific details of the ongoing search operation. The investigation aims to uncover any possible financial improprieties, tax evasion, or illegal money transfers linked to the DMK MP and his associates.
Jagadratsakan, a prominent DMK leader and former Union Minister, has not yet issued a statement regarding the ongoing search. DMK, however, maintains that the Income Tax Department’s actions are politically motivated and part of a broader attempt to tarnish the reputation of the party ahead of the upcoming elections.
The search operation raises significant interest and speculation within political circles, as the DMK gears up for the state assembly elections scheduled for early next year. It remains to be seen how the ongoing investigation will impact the electoral fortunes of the party and Jagatrakshagan in particular.
As the search progresses, the Income Tax Department is expected to release further updates on any significant findings or developments related to the investigation.