Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan accused of forex smuggling
On Wednesday, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) issued a show cause notice to popular Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) for allegedly smuggling foreign currency out of India. Khan has been given time to respond, but an unsatisfactory response could invite heavy penalties. Here's what we know about it.
Who is Rahat Fateh Ali Khan?
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan is the nephew of Pakistani legend Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. The singer, known for his work in Bollywood, became famous in 2005 for his song Jiya Dhadak Dhadak in the film Kalyug. He has sung several popular tracks since then.
The singer has been given 45 days to reply
According to multiple news reports, Khan had allegedly been smuggling foreign currency for three years. Reportedly, he had received $340,000 (Rs. 2.42cr) through illegal means, of which he smuggled $225,000 (Rs. 1.6r). The ED has sought his response within 45 days, and if the response is unsatisfactory, Khan could be slapped with a 300% penalty. He could also be barred from performing in India.
Khan had been caught with undeclared forex in 2011 also
Khan, however, is no stranger to such cases. In 2011, the singer and two of his associates were detained at the Delhi airport for carrying $125,000 (Rs. 89 lakh). However, he was later released after questioning by authorities. He was summoned by the ED in 2015 to give his statement in the case, and the singer, so far, has denied any wrongdoing.
