Taking serious note of bribery allegations against customs officials in Chennai, the government on Thursday ordered the department of revenue (DoR) to undertake a fair, transparent, and fact-based inquiry into the issues raised by Chennai-based firm Wintrack.
“A senior officer from DoR has been deputed to conduct a detailed factual inquiry, hearing the parties concerned, officials and thoroughly examining all relevant documentary evidence,” the finance ministry said in a post on X.
Wintrack’s allegations and company closure
Wintrack announced that from October 1, 2025, the company will cease import/export activities in India.
“For the past 45 days, Chennai customs officials have relentlessly harassed us. After exposing their bribery practices twice this year, they retaliated, effectively crippling our operations and destroying our business in India,” the company said in a post on ‘X’.
The post went viral on the social media platform.
Government response and commitment to ease of Business
“The matter is being dealt with utmost seriousness, and the government is committed to taking appropriate and expeditious action in accordance with the law. It is reiterated that the government is committed to enhancing the ease of doing business,” the ministry said.
In recent years, the government has implemented a series of taxpayer-friendly initiatives, such as the adoption of the Taxpayer Charter, the introduction of faceless customs procedures, and the establishment of appellate bodies for dispute resolution, intending to enhance transparency and promote ease of doing business, the ministry added.