CBI issues tax notice to Dr Reddy's

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday issued a notice to Dr Reddy’s Laboratories seeking details of the tax benefits it had availed during the reign of N Chandrababu Naidu as chief minister in Andhra Pradesh.

When contacted, a company spokesperson said, "We have received a query from CBI. The necessary information and documents have been duly provided to them."

The notice was issued in connection with the probe CBI launched based on an Andhra Pradesh high court directive. Vijayamma, wife of late chief minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy, had filed the petition seeking a probe by the CBI and the enforcement directorate against Naidu on various counts.

Following the directive, the CBI registered a preliminary inquiry against Naidu and 12 others.

Vijayamma, in her petition, alleged DRL had enjoyed tax benefits to the tune of Rs 25 crore for purchasing land that belonged to the Naidu family at an exorbitant price.