The Raid: A Financial Whirlwind in Odisha
In a sweeping action that has sent ripples across Odisha, the Income Tax Department recently completed a colossal task: counting the currency from 176 bags seized during raids at properties linked to Rajya Sabha MP Dheeraj Sahu. This operation, marking a significant crackdown on alleged financial irregularities, has brought to light a staggering amount of cash, reportedly exceeding Rs 300 crore.
Pictures of the over Rs 300 Cr Cash Seized from INC MP Dhiraj Prasad Sahu @CNNnews18 https://t.co/lVP20XUzAP pic.twitter.com/b69JqS3OwI
— Aman Sharma (@AmanKayamHai_) December 11, 2023
The Counting and Depositing Process
At the heart of this financial storm is the State Bank of India’s (SBI) main branch in Balangir, where the counted currency is set to be deposited. Bhagat Behera, the SBI Regional Manager, detailed the logistics of this mammoth operation. Out of the 176 bags received, 140 had been accounted for, with the rest scheduled for counting on the following Monday.
This operation has not only involved a large number of officials but also an extensive setup of currency-counting machinery. With 50 officials and 40 machines dedicated to the task, the process showcases the scale of the seizure and the meticulous approach undertaken by the authorities.
You may think this is a Bank’s cash chest but it isn’t. This is the cash haul recovered from Rahul Gandhi’s close aide and Congress’s Rajya Sabha MP Dhiraj Prasad Sahu…
Congress must answer how much of this money was being sent to Delhi and the Gandhis?#CorruptionKiDukan pic.twitter.com/7QltPuv1XJ— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) December 10, 2023
The Ongoing Investigation
While the counting process has grabbed headlines, it’s essential to note that the Income Tax officials’ investigation is still actively ongoing. They continue to survey properties linked to Sahu, delving into the extensive documentation process.
The Larger Impact
This raid has not only uncovered a vast sum of money but has also spotlighted the intricate connection between politics and business. The seized currency, originating from the premises of Boudh Distilleries Private Limited and linked entities, hints at a larger network of financial dealings.
Political Repercussions
The recovery of such a significant amount has provided substantial ammunition for the BJP, which has been vocal in its criticism of the Congress over issues of corruption. This event has further intensified the political discourse surrounding graft and financial mismanagement.
VIDEO | BJP MPs protest near Gandhi Statue in Parliament over recovery of unaccounted cash from Congress leader Dhiraj Sahu during the raids by Income Tax Department. pic.twitter.com/VPCXYwR3QO
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 11, 2023
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Ensuring Public Service Continuity
Despite the enormity of the operation, SBI’s Regional Manager has assured that the bank’s main branch will continue its regular functions for the public. This assurance is vital in maintaining public trust and ensuring that regular banking operations remain unaffected.
The Income Tax raid on properties connected to Rajya Sabha MP Dheeraj Sahu, culminating in the seizure of over Rs 300 crore, marks a significant moment in India’s ongoing battle against corruption and financial irregularities. As the authorities continue their investigation, the ramifications of this seizure will likely reverberate across the political and financial landscapes of the nation.
