Will take action after SIT report: Haryana FM on tax evasion

ROHTAK: Haryana Government will take action against those found guilty in the over Rs 10,000 crore tax evasion scam by builders after the SIT formed by the state Lokayukta puts forth its suggestions in this regard.

State Finance Minister Abhimanyu said the Lokayukta had taken cognisance of the scam which had resulted in a loss of more than Rs 10,000 crore to the state exchequer caused by tax-evading builders and developers.

"The Lokayukta has taken cognizance of the scam. The state government will consider its suggestions and take action against those found guilty in this case," Abhimanyu told reporters after flagging off 'Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao Programme' tour to create awareness on the subject.

Haryana Lokayukta Justice (Retd) Pritam Pal had formed the SIT last year on a complaint submitted by a Kaithal-based resident, who had alleged massive tax evasion.

Two days back, SIT led by IGP Shrikant Jadhav submitted a report to the Lokayukta.

During the course of investigation, the SIT found that a large number of builders and developers in housing segment were not paying tax on the sale of flats in the state despite a Supreme Court ruling in this regard.

SIT also discovered the involvement of certain officials of Haryana Excise and Taxation department, who allegedly helped the builders and developers evade tax.

It was found that builders, including reputed ones based in Gurgaon, Faridabad, Sonepat and Panipat, were allegedly involved in tax evasion.