Kerala Assembly Elections: I-T dept. to crack down on black money during polls

The Income Tax (I-T) department will not discriminate against political parties while cracking down on the use of unaccounted money. The department has set up a 24×7 control room in Kerala to curb the use of black money in the upcoming Assembly polls, according to I-T officials.

The department is in the process of finalising the investigation into the Kodakara highway robbery case, where unaccounted money was seized by the police. The final report regarding the case was uploaded in June 2025. The case may come to an end by March 2027 as the law is taking its own course. There was no delay on the part of the department in completing the investigation, said Anurag Srivastava, Director General, Income Tax (Investigation), Kochi, who has jurisdiction over Kerala and Lakshadweep.

The reported seizure of black money brought in from a neighbouring State during the 2021 Assembly polls, reportedly for the use of BJP candidates in the State, had stirred up a political controversy. The names of a few top BJP leaders from the State were found mentioned in the police case booked in this regard.

The Enforcement Directorate had also filed a complaint by invoking the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

The Directorate of Income Tax (Investigation), Kerala, will maintain strict vigil on the movement of unaccounted cash, bullion, precious metals and other valuables that are likely or suspected to be used for electoral purposes within the State. The 24×7 control room has been established at Room No. 603, 6th Floor, O/o Director General of Income Tax (Investigation), Aayakar Bhavan, Old Railway Station Road, Kochi, said Mr. Srivastava.

The public can share credible information on suspicious movement or distribution of cash, bullion, precious metals or other valuables in connection with the elections at the toll-free number: 1800 425 3173, mobile/ WhatsApp number: 8547002030 or email id: kerala.election2024@incometax.gov.in, he said.

People may contact the toll-free number at any time during the period in which the Model Code of Conduct will be in force. Informants are not required to disclose personal details such as name or identity. The control room will remain functional until the completion of the election process. The identity of informants will be kept confidential, he said.

Amrita Misra, Principal Director of Investigation and K. Jayaganesh, State Nodal Officer, were present at the press conference.