I-T notice on Kejriwal sparks another Team Anna-Govt row

The Income Tax (I-T) notice slapped on Arvind Kejriwal to recover dues sparked a fresh war of words between Team Anna and Government which was accused of carrying out a "smear campaign" while Anna Hazare warned of charting a "different course" if such actions continue.

The Government on its part said it has no intention of being "revengeful" or "oppressive" and described the tax recovery notice as "routine affair" of departments concerned.

The core team of the anti-corruption crusader whose 12-day fast here shook the nation alleged that the government was back to its "dirty tricks" and that officials were pressurised by "political bosses" to act against them.

"It is not the I-T Department's decision. They are doing what the government is saying. The I-T officials have no role in this notice. They are doing because of the pressure from the political bosses," Kejriwal said.

Other than the I-T Office's notice to Kejriwal to pay dues of Rs 9.27 lakh, Team Anna also referred to a Delhi Police report which said a a CD purported to contain conversation between lawyer Shanti Bhushan and political leaders was genuine. Notices for breach of privilege have also be moved in Parliament against Kiran Bedi.

The Office of the Chief Commissioner of Income Tax had on August five issued a notice to Kejriwal, an IRS officer, asking him to pay up, 11 days ahead of Hazare's fast demanding a strong Lok Pal. The notice alleged that he violated the bond clauses under which he went for a study leave for two years.

Kejriwal said he has not violated any provisions.

Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid said, "It is unfair that allegations are made against government departments about their routine duties."

"If there are dues, they have to be paid. It certainly does not build up a case of Government versus anybody. Why should we be oppressive and revengeful?," said Khurshid, who was a key negotiator to break the deadlock over Hazare's fast.

In a veiled threat to the government while addressing a gram sabha at his native village in Ralegan Siddhi in Maharashtra, Hazare said "We will have to think of a different course of action if the government continues to engage in such things."

"What government is doing is not right," he added.