(NDTV)
More than a dozen properties worth around Rs. 165 crores spread across Delhi and Bihar — allegedly belonging to the family of Bihar’s veteran politician Lalu Yadav – has been seized by the Income Tax department, which is investigating assets cases against the family in several cities. The properties include a house in posh South Delhi and a farm in the outskirts of the city; a dozen plots in and around Patna, among which is the 3.5 acres on which a mall is being built.
The beneficiary of most – including the plots in Bihar and the house in Delhi – is Tejashwi Yadav, Lalu Yadav’s son, who is also seen as his political heir. The beneficiary of the farmhouse is his sister Misa Bharti, a parliamentarian from Bihar, tax officials said. So far, six members of Lalu Yadav’s family are suspected to be involved in corrupt land deals. Investigators say they purchased properties in the name of others to avoid paying tax. In June, the department had filed a case against several members of the family under a tough law that involves seven years in jail and a hefty fine.