Taxmen raid Jaya TV, associates, over suspected tax evasion

The searches at the Tamil television channel, which is perceived to be politically disposed in favour of deposed AIADMK leaders VK Sasikala and TTV Dhinakaran, were conducted over alleged tax evasion.

Also, the allegation covers aspects like shell companies, dubious investments, fund flow and fudging of accounts, income tax sources told PTI.

The searches at the TV channel's accounts branch is part of 'Operation Clean Money', sources said.

Searches also cover the premises of Midas Distilleries and Jazz Cinemas, they said.

The two entities are perceived to be associated with some of those linked to Jaya TV.

Jaya TV also reported the searches by tax sleuths in its premises and at Jazz cinemas.

The searches were being conducted by more than 10 groups since this morning, sources added.