Black money case: Action will be taken against Hassan Ali Khan, says Pranab

New Delhi:  Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee today said the government has taken note of the Supreme Court's observations and action will be taken against Pune-based stud farm owner Hassan Ali Khan who is facing charges of stashing huge amounts of money in tax havens. (Read: Who is Hassan Ali Khan?)

"That is being taken care of. We have noted the observations of the Supreme Court. All appropriate action will be taken," he said on the sidelines of a CII meet when asked if the government was contemplating any action against Khan.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had yesterday issued a 'Look out Circular' at all airports against Khan to ensure that he did not flee the country.
   
Khan is facing charges of stashing away over US $ 8 billion in Swiss banks. In 2009, he was served a notice for a tax demand for about Rs. 40,000 crore.
    
Lambasting the Centre for not having the "will power" to act against black money hoarders, the apex court on March 3 asked why Khan and others were not subjected to custodial interrogation despite the probe agencies possessing sufficient materials.

"What the hell is going on in this country," an anguished court had asked.

In connection with the black money case involving Khan, the Supreme Court had in February also asked the Centre to ensure that Khan did not leave the country.