Govt committee to probe tax-related criminal offences

The government today announced setting up of a special wing -- Directorate of Income Tax (Criminal Investigation) -- to investigate criminal offences under direct tax laws.

The DCI, to be set up with immediate effect, would collect information about persons and transactions connected with criminal activities and initiate prosecution proceedings against them.

"The DCI will perform functions in respect to criminal matters having any financial implication punishable as an offence under any direct tax law," the Finance Ministry said.

The DCI, to be a part of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), will seek and collect information about persons and transactions suspected to be connected with criminal activities "having cross-border, inter-state or international ramifications, that pose a threat to national security and are punishable under the direct tax laws". (PTI)