Four Crocodiles Found During Tax Evasion Raid on Former BJP MLA’s House in Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh: Crocodiles Seized During Tax Evasion Raid

In a surprising turn of events during a tax evasion investigation in Sagar district, Madhya Pradesh, four crocodiles were rescued from the residence of a former BJP MLA. The discovery was made by Income Tax officials conducting raids on the property, reportedly belonging to Harvansh Singh Rathore, and a former councillor, Rajesh Kesharwani. The raids, which began on Sunday, are focused on allegations of tax evasion amounting to crores of rupees.

Tax Evasion Allegations and the Unusual Discovery

The Income Tax department's investigation uncovered substantial evidence of tax evasion, with reports estimating figures of up to ₹155 crore. Seizures included ₹3 crore in cash and significant amounts of gold and silver jewelry. Rajesh Kesharwani, a businessman with interests in beedi manufacturing and construction, is implicated in evading a substantial portion of this amount, estimated at ₹140 crore. The former BJP MLA is also a businessman and veteran politician in the Sagar district.

The Crocodiles' Unexpected Residence

The crocodiles were found in a small pond located within the residential property. While the family of the former MLA claimed to have donated the pond to temple priests years ago and that they had repeatedly contacted the forest department to remove the reptiles, the forest department has confirmed receiving a letter from the family in 2014. This raises questions about ownership and responsibility in the matter. The forest department initiated a case under the Wildlife Protection Act, and the health of the crocodiles is currently under evaluation.

Wildlife Protection Act and Implications

Keeping crocodiles as pets is strictly prohibited in India under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. The Act provides the highest level of protection to several crocodile species, including the marsh crocodile, saltwater crocodile, and gharial, due to their conservation status and the potential danger they pose to human safety. The incident highlights the critical importance of wildlife protection laws and underscores the consequences of illegal wildlife possession. This also raises concerns regarding human-wildlife conflict and the conservation of these vulnerable species.

Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings

The investigation into the tax evasion case is ongoing. Authorities are reviewing evidence and determining the appropriate legal actions against those involved. The case involving the crocodiles will also proceed according to the provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act. Further updates are expected as the investigations unfold. The incident serves as a reminder of the serious legal ramifications of both wildlife trafficking and tax evasion in India.

The Role of Officials

A forest department official highlighted the complexities of the situation, emphasizing the need to determine ownership of the pond and clarify the responsibilities of both the family and the department given the family's previous request to remove the crocodiles. The head of the forest force confirmed the registration of a case and mentioned that the court would be informed about the crocodiles' status.

A Unique Case with Broader Implications

The unusual confluence of tax evasion and wildlife protection in this case has drawn widespread attention. It highlights a variety of issues – from the pervasive nature of tax evasion in India to the ongoing struggle to enforce wildlife protection laws. The incident underscores the need for stricter enforcement of regulations related to both wildlife and financial crimes.

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