In a significant crackdown on corruption, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested Amit Kumar Singal, a 2007 batch IRS officer, along with his associate Harsh Kotak, in connection with a Rs 25 lakh bribery case. The arrests followed extensive raids conducted at Singal’s properties across Delhi, Mumbai, and Punjab.
Singal, who served as additional director general at the Directorate of Taxpayer Services in Delhi, is accused of demanding illegal gratification of Rs 45 lakh from Sanam Kapoor, owner of La Pino’z Pizza, in exchange for favorable treatment related to an income tax notice.
The CBI seized piles of cash worth Rs 1 crore, 3.5 kg of gold, 2 kg of silver, and gold and silver coins valued at Rs 3.5 crore during searches at the officer’s premises. Officials also recovered documents related to 25 bank accounts, lockers, and immovable properties across multiple states.
The bribery demand was reportedly accompanied by threats of legal action and harassment if the complainant did not comply. The CBI caught Singal’s associate, Harsh Kotak, accepting Rs 25 lakh as the first installment of the bribe in a trap laid at Mohali, Punjab. Both accused were sent to judicial custody for 14 days.
Investigations are ongoing to trace the full extent of Singal’s assets and connections.
