<h1>Income Tax Department raids 150 locations nationwide targeting fraudulent tax deduction claims worth Rs 1,045 crore</h1> The Income Tax Department conducted large-scale verification operations across 150 locations nationwide, targeting fraudulent tax deduction claims. The investigation revealed organized rackets operated by tax return preparers and intermediaries filing returns with fictitious deductions under various sections including house rent allowance, political contributions, education loans, medical insurance, and charitable donations. These schemes involved false TDS returns to claim excessive refunds, with taxpayers lured by promises of inflated refunds for commission. Despite outreach efforts resulting in 40,000 taxpayers voluntarily withdrawing false claims worth Rs 1,045 crore, many remained non-compliant. The department warned of stern action including penalties and prosecution.