Hardik Pandya Issues Clarification After Custom Department Seizes His Watches 

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has issued a clarification regarding the allegations levelled against him for not declaring custom items from the UAE.

As Indian players returned from UAE after a dismal performance in ICC T20 World Cup 2021, there were some reports about Pandya not having invoices for the items he purchased in the Gulf nation.

I had voluntarily declared all the items: Hardik Pandya

The all-rounder has dismissed all the rumours and said he himself went to the custom department, the moment he arrived in Mumbai.

“Early on Monday morning, 15th November, on my arrival from Dubai, after picking up my luggage, I voluntarily went to Mumbai airport customs counter to declare the items brought by me and pay the requisite customs duty. Wrong perceptions have been floating around on social media regarding my declaration to customs at Mumbai airport, and I would like to clarify about what transpired,” Hardik Pandya issued a statement on his Twitter handle.

“I had voluntarily declared all the items that I’d lawfully purchased from Dubai and was ready to pay whatever duties that needed to be paid. As a matter of fact, the customs department had asked for all purchase documents which were submitted; however customs is doing proper valuation for duty which I’ve already confirmed to pay,” the statement further mentioned.

I’m a law-abiding citizen of India: Hardik Pandya

The media reports also suggested that Pandya’s two watches which costed Rs 5 crore, were seized by the custom department.

The all-rounder clarified that the price of the watch was falsely reported and revealed its original amount.

“The cost of the watch is approximately Rs 1.5 crore and not Rs 5 crore as per the rumours floating on the social media,” Pandya said.

“I’m a law-abiding citizen of the country and I respect all the government agencies. I’ve received all the cooperation from the Mumbai customs department and I’ve assured my full cooperation to them and will provide them whatever legitimate documents they need to get this matter cleared. All allegations against me of crossing any legal boundaries are totally unfound,” he added.

Pandya was also under the scrutiny over his fitness and form, with most experts unhappy with his selection in the Indian squad for the mega event.

Also Read: Is Hardik Pandya Really Been Rested Or Is There A Message That’s Been Conveyed – Aakash Chopra