IPL probe has reached adjudication level: ED

MUMBAI: The probe into alleged financial irregularities in the Indian Premier League (IPL) was progressing and has reached adjudication level, the Enforcement Directorate has informed the Sports ministry.

Sports minister Ajay Maken had written a letter to the ED on 17 May seeking a speedy probe into the alleged irregularities committed by the BCCI as well as the franchises.

"The ministry has got a response from the ED and they have informed that the cases of alleged violations under the forex rules have entered the adjudication stage. The penal processes will begin soon in the notices sent under FEMA laws," PTI quotes a source privy to the development as saying.

The Finance Ministry has slapped 19 notices to BCCI on alleged foreign exchange violations to the tune of Rs 10.77 billion relating to the IPL.

Maken had also called for an investigation by the ED and Income Tax department whether the players were paid through black money following a sting operation which showed domestic players claiming that they received more money than the prescribed salary cap of the BCCI.

The ministry, which has been at loggerheads with the BCCI, had also written to the revenue secretary seeking an inquiry whether black money was being used in conducting the IPL.