The Income Tax Department on Monday questioned Vishal Das, son of the late Odisha Health Minister Naba Kishore Das, as part of an ongoing probe into suspected tax evasion and financial irregularities tied to the family’s business operations.
Appears Before I-T Officials in Bhubaneswar
Vishal Das appeared at the Income Tax Department office in Bhubaneswar, where he underwent hours of interrogation. Speaking to reporters after the session, Vishal said, “I had been called today, and I have fully cooperated in the investigation process. I provided the response to every question they had. The people of Odisha are aware of what is happening.”
This marks the latest development in the high-profile probe that began with extensive raids across the country.
Nationwide Raids Target Das Family Properties
The interrogation follows a major I-T crackdown that began on June 19, targeting over 20 properties linked to the late minister and his associates. Raids were conducted in multiple cities, including Bhubaneswar, Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, and even New Delhi. Among the places searched were private residences, shopping complexes, hotels, and offices allegedly tied to the Das family.
Sources close to the investigation revealed that documents related to coal transportation contracts were also seized during the raids. These documents are now central to the inquiry, as officials suspect possible tax fraud within these business dealings.
Focus on Shell Companies and Benami Deals
Investigators are also reportedly probing the use of shell companies by Vishal Das to allegedly conceal income and evade taxes. During the initial raids in June, Vishal was brought to Bhubaneswar from Kolkata and was subjected to preliminary questioning.
Now, the investigation has shifted focus to a network of benami (proxy-owned) companies that are said to be connected to him, raising questions about asset concealment and illicit financial flows.
Political Repercussions in Odisha
The ongoing probe has stirred political tensions in Odisha. Opposition parties have seized upon the issue to demand a broader investigation into the assets and financial dealings of government officials and their families. They argue that the revelations highlight a need for greater transparency and stricter oversight.
Naba Kishore Das, who was assassinated in January 2023, had long faced speculation over his wealth and financial activities. The current investigation is seen as a posthumous attempt to scrutinize those dealings.
More Raids and Summonses Expected
While the Income Tax Department has yet to issue an official statement regarding the latest round of questioning, insiders suggest that the probe is far from over. More summonses are expected in the coming days, along with additional raids as investigators dig deeper into the financial web surrounding the Das family.
The case remains a major flashpoint in Odisha’s political and administrative circles, with implications that could stretch far beyond the immediate targets of the investigation.