Based on the inputs from the FIU, these agencies will also write to respective entity to seek details on suspicious transactions carried out by them. The officials said a person or company on receipt of such letters can attach relevant documents as proof against a suspected transaction, earmarked by FIU or other intelligence agencies, while writing back to the authorities.

The aim behind sending such letters is to remove bureaucratic hassles and develop faith in people about tax authorities. There will be no in-person interrogation or investigation. These letters are not to create panic among people but to politely seek information from them, they said. The idea to send such polite letters is the brain child of Finance Minister P Chidambaram. He had advised DGCEI and DGRI to consider issuing polite letters to entities, reported in a Suspicious Transaction Report (STR) issued by the FIU, which are not known to their databases seeking basic information whether they were a manufacturer, importer, exporter or a service provider. An STR involves a transaction of 10 lakh and above, which gives rise to a reasonable ground of suspicion that it may involve the proceeds of crime including black money.

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