Kerala YouTubers Raid is the latest buzzword on social media, as the Income Tax (IT) department of India conducted raids on the houses and offices of 13 prominent YouTubers and content creators in the state on June 22, 2023.
The raids took place in various districts, namely Ernakulam, Pathanamthitta, Thrissur, Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Kasargod.
Among the raided YouTubers were actress Pearle Maaney, who has 2.6 million subscribers on her channel, and Arjyou, who has 3.61 million subscribers and is known for his roast videos.
Here are some of the details you need to know about the Kerala YouTubers Raid.
What was the reason for the Kerala YouTubers Raid?
The main reason for the Kerala YouTubers Raid was tax evasion.
According to IT officials, these YouTubers earn an estimated Rs 2-5 crore annually, but their tax filings do not accurately reflect their income.
They also have made undisclosed investments, which have not been included in their tax declarations.
The IT department had conducted a preliminary investigation before initiating the raid.
They monitored the activities and income of these YouTubers with the help of service providers like YouTube and other social media platforms.
They had also found out that their IT tax deducted at source was inappropriate2.
How did the Kerala YouTubers Raid take place?
The Kerala YouTubers Raid commenced at around 9 am on June 22, 2023.
The raid was coordinated by the IT Enforcement Wing based in Kochi.
The IT officials raided the residences and offices of 13 YouTubers and content creators across six districts of the state.
Some of the YouTubers who were raided are:
- M4Tech: 11.2 million subscribers
- Unboxing Dude: 3.75 million subscribers
- Arjyou: 3.61 million subscribers
- Fishing Freaks: 3.35 million subscribers
- Akhil NRD: 2.83 million subscribers
- Pearle Maaney: 2.6 million subscribers
- Jayaraj G Nath: 1.72 million subscribers
What are the consequences of the Kerala YouTubers Raid?
The Kerala YouTubers Raid has created a stir among the online community and the general public.
The raided YouTubers have received mixed reactions from their fans and followers.
Some have supported them and expressed their solidarity, while others have criticized them and questioned their credibility.
The raid has also raised awareness about the legal and ethical aspects of online content creation and monetization.
The IT department has not yet revealed the exact amount of tax evasion or penalty that these YouTubers have to pay.
The raided YouTubers may also face legal action if they are found guilty of tax evasion or other offenses.
