I-T “Survey” on BBC Offices Ends After 59 Hrs

New Delhi: The Income Tax department’s ‘survey’ at BBC’s offices in Delhi and Mumbai concluded after 59 hours on Thursday. The officials left with various documents and data they collected during the survey, which lasted three days.

BBC India confirmed that the taxmen have left their offices and said they are supporting the staff who faced lengthy questioning or were required to stay overnight. “Our output is back to normal”, said the British broadcaster, adding that they will continue to report “without fear or favour”.

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According to sources, the I-T officials made copies of the financial data of the news organisation.

This Income Tax ‘survey’ operation at BBC offices in Delhi and Mumbai started at around 11.30 AM on Tuesday.

According to Income Tax officials, this survey is being carried out to investigate issues related to international taxation and transfer pricing of BBC subsidiary companies.

Opposition parties have denounced the I-T department’s action against the BBC. They have termed it a “political vendetta”. But the ruling BJP has alleged BBC to be involved in “venomous reporting”. Opposition leaders questioned the timing of the I-T action.

This ‘survey’ by the Income Tax department follows the broadcasting of a two-part documentary ‘India: The Modi Question’ on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the 2002 Gujarat riots, by the BBC.