Days after the Income-tax raid imposed on Sonu Sood’s office and premises, and the IT Department indicated the needle of suspicion – without naming him – at alleged tax evasion of around Rs 20 crore by him and other questionable deals with his business partners clinched at another Rs 240 crore.
The actor breaking his silence came up with a reaction on Monday when he said, “You don’t always have to tell your side of the story. Time will.”
The tax department had put out a statement, saying Sonu Sood’s non-profit Sood Charity Foundation set up in July last year collected donations of over ₹ 18 crores till April this year, out of which ₹ 1.9 crores has been spent on relief work and ₹ 17 crores has been lying unused. It also said the organization raised Rs 2.1 crore from overseas donors using a crowdfunding platform in violation of the law.
Responding to the above statement made by the IT department, the actor said, “Every rupee in my foundation is awaiting its turn to save a precious life and reach the needy. … In addition, on many occasions, I have encouraged brands to donate my endorsement fees for humanitarian causes too, which keeps us going.”
However, explaining his silence over the past few days as IT investigation was being administered and searches were made in at least 28 premises belonging to Sood and his business associates all over India, snuffing for evidence of tax evasion, the actor said: “I have been busy attending to a few guests hence was unable to be at your service for the last four days. Here I am back again in all humility. At your humble service, for life.”
He also added: “Kar Bhalaa, Ho Bhalaa, Antt Bhale Ka Bhalaa (be good, do good, the end is always good for those who are good). My journey continues. Jai Hind.”
However, the tax raids were launched to investigate a deal between Sonu Sood’s company and a Lucknow-based real estate firm, according to sources.
Meanwhile, responding to the actor’s statement, AAP chief and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal tweeted: “More power to you Sonu Ji. You are a hero to millions of Indians.”
