Kerala authorities launched raids on jewellery establishments across the state as part of Operation Aurum, uncovering tax evasion worth ₹70 crore. The operation began at 3 p.m. on July 30 and continued until the early hours of July 31. During the raids, officials collected fines totaling ₹2.87 crore. The initiative aimed to curb illegal tax suppression in the jewellery sector, which has long been a target for regulatory action.
The raids targeted multiple businesses suspected of underreporting income and evading taxes. Law enforcement teams conducted searches at various locations, seizing documents and electronic records to trace financial discrepancies. Officials emphasized that the operation was part of broader efforts to improve transparency in the industry.
So far, the collected fines represent a fraction of the total estimated evasion. Further investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the illegal activities. The government has expressed its commitment to enforcing tax laws rigorously. (thehindu.com)
