HYDERABAD: A flashy public persona built around gold has now drawn the attention of tax authorities, with another self-styled ‘gold man’ landing in the income tax department’s net in Hyderabad. The investigation unit seized gold worth about ₹1 crore from Yadgiri Chinna Goud alias Dargah Chinna Pahilwan. Of the 900 grams of gold found in his possession, 700 grams was identified as unaccounted and seized, while around 150 to 200 grams was returned for personal use. Officials said he was unable to explain the source of income for the ornaments. The case is significant as the warrant was issued under section 247 of the new Income Tax Act, 2025, which came into force on April 1, replacing the 1961 law. This is the first such warrant issued anywhere in the country under the new Act. Earlier, such action was taken under section 132 of the old law. Sources said Chinna Pahilwan is the third ‘gold man’ to come under the department’s scanner. Earlier, similar seizures were made from Telangana Hockey president Konda Vijay Kumar. In another case, most of the ornaments worn by P Suresh Kumar alias Surya Bhai were found to be coated or made of rhodium and copper. Officials said the present case stemmed from social profiling, with investigators tracking Chinna Pahilwan television and YouTube interviews before initiating action. During the inquiry, 700 grams of gold was treated as unaccounted and seized. According to sources, Chinna Pahilwan admitted that the gold was unaccounted. He claimed its value to be around ₹1 crore and attributed it to rental income and land dealings. Officials, however, said he could not satisfactorily explain the source of income. The income tax department also examined his financial records. Officials said only one income tax return filed by him reflected an income of about ₹4 lakh. He is said to have claimed rental income and cash-based land transactions, including buying land on GPA, reselling it at higher prices and taking the margin in cash. Authorities also looked into the finances of his family members. One relative is a tech professional based abroad, while another reported income from running a girls’ PG hostel. Strong public imageChinna Pahilwan, widely called the ‘Telangana gold man’, has cultivated a strong public image as a businessman, politician and local figure in Gachibowli area. He has been associated with political parties in the past and is said to be active in real estate and ‘settlements,’ with a public persona centred on wearing heavy gold jewellery.He also maintains a visible presence on social media, featuring in ‘home tour’ videos showcasing his properties and appearing at local events and festivals.
