The Income Tax department started raids at various locations related to contractors and suppliers of Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (TNEB) in Tamil Nadu on Wednesday. The raids, according to sources, were in connection with providing equipment to the department. In Chennai, raids are being held at 10 places including India Private Limited and Radha Engineering Works Private Limited.
According to ANI, the raid comes as Minister Senthil Balaji's bail petition was set to be heard in the court on Wednesday. The Minister is currently lodged in Puzhal jail in an alleged cash-for-jobs scam case.
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A leading company which undertakes projects in thermal power plants and ports is also being searched. Sources in the IT department told IANS that the raids are being conducted following information regarding malpractices in the books of accounts and in certain contracts with the state PSU, Tangedco.
In September, ED conducted raids on close aide of the Minister.
Meanwhile, City court in Chennai denied bail to arrested TN minister Senthil Balaji, PTI reported.
A sessions court in Chennai on Wednesday dismissed the bail petition filed by DMK minister V Senthil Balaji, who was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money laundering case. Principal Sessions Judge S Alli dismissed Balaji's plea for relief.
Balaji was detained by the ED in June of this year in relation to a cash-for-jobs scam that occurred when he served as the transport minister under the AIADMK in the past.
Senthil Balaji was previously the former TNEB Minister. Currently, he serves as Minister without portfolio.