This will have severe impact on overseas investments

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Income Tax (IT) Department have launched investigations into Indian high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) for undeclared foreign assets. These wealthy individuals are suspected of hiding assets in various foreign countries, including European nations, British Virgin Islands, and Dubai. The probe comes under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) and the Black Money Act.

The ED is focusing on tracking offshore companies set up by these HNIs to acquire properties abroad. These companies are often used to conceal the actual ownership of assets. Meanwhile, the IT Department is scrutinizing bank accounts and financial interests that have not been declared in India. This move aims to ensure compliance with the regulations and curb the practice of hiding wealth overseas.

Both agencies are working together to identify and penalize those involved in these illegal activities. The investigations are part of a broader effort to bring transparency and accountability to the financial dealings of Indian HNIs. By targeting these hidden assets, the government aims to recover lost revenue and deter future tax evasion.