Rs. 160B loss flagged in sugar tax probe: AG finds no criminal offense in 2020 levy cut itself

⭕ CID told court that AG found no criminal offense in reducing sugar levy from Rs. 50 to 25 cents/kg on Oct. 13, 2020.

⭕ AG concluded the tax cut decision itself was not illegal, but recommended further probes on possible undue gains.

⭕ CID said AG advised inquiries into whether individuals received illegal benefits, bribes, or engaged in corruption, focusing on public officials or private individuals who may have profited illicitly from the tax reduction.

⭕ Case was triggered by a complaint from ex-Finance Secretary Mahinda Siriwardena to the CID. Allegations claim govt lost over Rs. 160B due to the tax cut, with no benefits passed to the public.

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