Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether a fire broke out in Income-tax office in Mayur Bhawan in New Delhi;

(b) if so, the extent of damage caused thereby;

(c) whether the cause of fire has been inquired into, and

(d) if so, the findings thereof and the action taken thereon ?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE
(SHRI S.S. PALANIMANICKAM)

(a) Yes Sir. A fire broke out in Income- tax Office on 7th floor of Mayur Bhawan, New Delhi in the early morning of 6th October, 2007. It was put out by the Delhi Fire Service.

(b) The fire damaged/destroyed some Income-tax records, administrative records, office furniture and equipment.

(c) An FIR has been lodged with the Delhi Police on 6-10-2007. Enquiries are being carried out by Delhi Police. No report has been received from them so far.

(d) The outcome of investigation by the Police with regard to cause of fire is awaited.