Jharsuguda/Sambalpur, Jun 21: The Income Tax Department’s sweeping investigation into the financial dealings of late Odisha Health Minister Naba Kishore Das entered its third consecutive day, with raids continuing at over 20 locations across Odisha and beyond.

The searches are being conducted at the former minister’s residences in Sarabahal (Jharsuguda) and Sambalpur, as well as at business establishments including Hotel Mandarin, Hotel Niki, and offices of United Corporation and Matarani Transport. These firms are reportedly linked to Das’s close associates.

According to official sources, the raids are part of a probe into alleged tax evasion and disproportionate assets, particularly in sectors like coal transportation and hospitality. A team of over 120 Income Tax officials, supported by CRPF personnel, has been deployed to secure the premises and examine financial documents, digital records, and transaction logs.

Access to the raided sites has been strictly restricted, with only authorized personnel allowed entry. The presence of central forces underscores the high-profile nature of the operation.

Notably, Minati Das, wife of the late minister, and Deepali Das, his daughter and former MLA from Jharsuguda, have reportedly been questioned by the IT team. The department is also scrutinizing the financial activities of other family members and business partners.

This is not the first time the Das family has come under the scanner. Earlier this year, similar raids were conducted at properties linked to Braja Kishore Das, Naba Das’s brother and a prominent contractor.

The ongoing operation has sparked political buzz across Odisha, given Naba Das’ influential role in state politics before his assassination in January 2023.

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