Cyber ​​raids against a Lucknow-based real estate developer; more than 25 teams surveying 18 sites

LUCKNOW The Income Tax department on Wednesday conducted extensive simultaneous raids at over two dozen locations across Lucknow and Barabanki linked to a Lucknow-based real estate developer and a steel company. Over 25 teams were deployed for the crackdown at 18 locations associated with the realtor, including key offices in Hazratganj and residential properties in Gomti Nagar.

Searches were also carried out at the offices of the other company in Jankipuram and Nirala Nagar. Authorities collected evidence and questioned staff late into the night. Additionally, searches were conducted at a manufacturing plant and associated showrooms in Kursi Road Industrial Area.

The operations were motivated by allegations of financial irregularities, tax evasion and transactions with shell companies. Authorities seized numerous documents and electronic records while questioning owners, directors and employees about their business practices. Access to the premises was restricted and staff were instructed to hand over their mobile phones during searches.

The real estate developer had been involved in many high-rise and residential projects in Lucknow and NCR. But the company has been accused of converting black money into legitimate revenue and evading significant tax obligations.

According to authorities, the company’s estimated annual turnover exceeded ₹1,000 crore, although the exact figures have not been disclosed on its official website. Ministry sources said the searches not only covered the owner’s personal and business properties, but also extended to the company’s offices and various expansion project sites.