I-T raids on contractors

The Income Tax sleuths raided the residences of two contractors in Chikkodi town and Shiraguppi in Chikkodi taluk on Wednesday.

According to sources, contractors Prakash Wantamutti and R S Patil are said to be the close aides of Congress candidate from Chikkodi, Prakash Hukkeri.

The search operations were carried out based on specific information that the contractors had mobilised cash for distribution among voters and for electioneering. Hukkeri alleged that raids on contractors was to intimidate them.

The I-T sleuths raided the residence of a contractor-cum-hotelier at Ghataprabha in Gokak taluk. Sources said the residence and hotels of Jayasheel Shetty were raided and documents were being verified. Shetty is said to be associated with the Jarkiholi brothers.