Income Tax officials carried out extensive raids on several popular restaurants and bars in Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, and Puri, uncovering evidence of tax evasion worth nearly Rs 50 crore.
The operation lasted for 24 hours and targeted multiple establishments suspected of large-scale financial irregularities.
Officials confirmed that Embassy Bar and Sky Lounge in Chandrasekharpur alone evaded nearly 80% of taxes despite reporting an annual business of around Rs 25 crore. Raids also covered Meyser Express and Tandooribala restaurants.
Fifteen teams of Income Tax officers conducted searches across six different locations, including the residences of restaurant owners. Authorities seized crucial documents and financial records during the operation. Notices have been issued to the owners, directing them to appear before the Income Tax office for questioning.
The crackdown marks one of the biggest actions against tax evasion in Odisha’s hospitality sector. Officials said the raids demonstrate the department’s commitment to curbing financial fraud and ensuring compliance. Investigations are ongoing, and more details are expected to emerge as scrutiny of seized records continues.
The discovery of Rs 50 crore in tax evasion has sent shockwaves through the business community. Authorities emphasised that strict measures will follow against violators, reinforcing the government’s stance on transparency and accountability in financial dealings.
