In an unexpected turn of events, Income Tax (IT) officials raiding the residence of former BJP MLA Harvansh Singh Rathore in Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar district discovered crocodiles on the property. The raid was conducted as part of an investigation into alleged tax evasion linked to a bidi manufacturing business run by Rajesh Kesarwani, Rathore’s business associate. Kesarwani, a former councillor and contractor, is accused of evading large sums of income tax. Rathore, a prominent leader from Sagar, previously served as a legislator in the 2013 assembly elections. His late father, Harnam Singh Rathore, was also a former minister in the state government.
IT officials began raiding premises linked to Kesarwani and his associates on Sunday. On Friday, while inspecting Rathore’s property, the officials were shocked to find crocodiles in a pond located on the premises. The matter was immediately brought to the attention of the forest department. Aseem Shrivastava, the Madhya Pradesh Head of Forest Force, confirmed the rescue of the crocodiles and stated that a case had been registered under the Wildlife Protection Act. The officials are currently assessing the health of the reptiles and will inform the court regarding their next steps.
Apart from the unusual discovery, the raid uncovered evidence of tax evasion amounting to ₹155 crore. Officials seized ₹3 crore in cash, along with valuable items such as gold and silver jewellery. Further investigations have revealed that Rathore himself is responsible for evading ₹140 crore in taxes, with crucial documents and evidence now in the hands of the authorities.
The raids, which are ongoing, have shed light on a network of illegal activities, and authorities are determined to pursue legal action. The findings have raised questions about the financial dealings of both Rathore and his business partner Kesarwani, as well as the possible involvement of others in the tax evasion scheme.
The discovery of crocodiles on the premises has added an unusual twist to the investigation, drawing attention to the high-profile raid. As the authorities continue their efforts to probe the full extent of the tax evasion and illegal activities, the case is expected to make waves in the state’s political and business circles.
Sources By Agencies
