In a sting operation conducted by News18, managers of Pakistani artistes popular in India like Fawad Khan, Shafqat Amaanat Ali, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Mawra Hocane, were seen agreeing to questionable deals that involved black money. In the wake of Modi’s demonetisation initiative, and heightened awareness about black money, this scam has drawn a lot of flak from the public.
The reporters first approached Manu Kohli, Shafqat Ali’s manager, who quoted 25 lakh rupees as the fee, exclusive of other expenses incurred and service taxes. While the deal initially seemed legitimate, when asked if he would like a 5-7 lakh legal transaction followed by a payment in cash on the remaining amount, Kohli readily agreed. Rahat Fateh Ali Khan was also brought in for a similar deal.
The reporters also contacted Fawad Khan’s manager. The actor had been in the centre of controversy surrounding the release of Karan Johar’s Ae Dil Hai Mushkil. After initially sounding apprehensive about performing in Delhi, given the tension aurrounding the actor, the manager later agreed to the event. A deal was made where in a portion of the payment would be accounted for while the rest would be paid in black money.
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Further, the manager also urged the reporters to deposit the black money in the actor’s UAE account, to evade taxes.
Mawra Hocane’s Pakistan based manager demanded Rs 50 lakhs for a two hour appearance and asked for Rs 25 lakhs in cash to be paid to her contact in Mumbai; while the rest of the amount was to be transferred to Hocane’s Australian bank account.
Post demonetisation, the effect the move will have on black money is being debated upon.
Feature image courtesy : mensxp.com and indiatimes.com