I-T Dept gears up to curb use of black money during LS polls

In an attempt to curb the menace of black money during the ensuing Lok Sabha elections, the Director General of Income Tax (Investigation) has announced a slew of measures and has also called upon the people to report financial irregularities if noticed by them.

Speaking to media persons here, Mumbai's DGIT (Investigation) Kishore Kumar Vyawhare said: "To curb the use of black money in elections, we have deployed 200 officials, who will be alert round the clock. We are monitoring all the regions and special focus will be on Mumbai region."

"We have also set up a toll-free number and anyone can register a complaint through it. In Mumbai, our officers will be deployed at domestic airport and international airport among other places, as most of the black money is brought in through air routes," he said.

"Hence special attention will be paid to the airports. We are also in touch with intelligence officials. Our toll-free number, landline, WhatsApp number, e-mail-id, all these will be available for twenty-four hours."

He also said that quick action teams have been stationed at prime spots of the city. "In 2014, we had received over 100 complaints but action couldn't be initiated in all cases as the teams couldn't reach many places," he said.

"That is why we have stationed teams in all corners of Mumbai and six quick response teams have been formed. Our attempt will be to reach the spot within one hour. Six teams will be led by Deputy Commissioner level officers," he said.

He also said that action will be taken by the I-T Department if the recovered amount is more than Rs 10 lakh. "The person will also be interrogated about the origin of the cash amount," he said.

"Keeping in mind the Lok Sabha elections we will also be keeping an eye on the co-operative banks," he said. Vyawhare also requested the people of Mumbai to contact him if any illegal financial transactions are observed by them during the elections.