The Income Tax Department launched searches on Saturday at multiple sites across Jharkhand, including premises associated with a close aide of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, in connection with a tax evasion investigation, according to official sources. These searches come just weeks before the Jharkhand assembly elections, scheduled for November 13 and 20, with results expected on November 23.
The Congress reacted strongly to the timing of the raids. Congress leader Rakesh Sinha said, “This is not new for Jharkhand. I-T raids are often conducted at opposition leaders’ premises. The BJP is attempting to gain a foothold in the state using I-T and ED raids as pressure tactics.”
In response, BJP spokesperson Pratul Shahdeo urged patience, stating, “There is no need to link these actions to elections. Let’s wait for the official statement from the I-T department.”
The timing of these searches has sparked a political debate in Jharkhand, with both parties questioning each other’s motives as they approach the upcoming polls.
