AITF condemns Tax Dept order

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, January 17

The members of All Industries and Trade Forum (AITF) have condemned the latest order (numbered PA/TC/2024/06, dated January 15) issued by Punjab Taxation Commissioner Arshdeep Singh Thind. The implementation of the order would mean enhanced powers for state GST inspectors under Section 61 and 73. They would have more authority and exercise power similar to state GST Officers. Inspectors would be allowed to scrutinise cases with disputes amounting to Rs 1.5 lakh, said the members.

AITF national president Badish Jindal said these new directions would provide them the right to issue summons and carry out inspections in their wards.

“The order is inconsistent with the manifesto of the Aam Aadmi Party which promised eradication of ‘Inspector raj’ in the state. In fact the authorities, in a complete turnaround, are increasing the powers of inspectors. The government has failed to curb the corruption in the department. Instances of bogus billing are one of the highest across the country in Punjab, while the recovery rate is almost nil,” said Jindal.

More than 1 lakh cases remain pending with the state’s GST department and inspectors are responsible for holding investigations into them. The increased powers would also mean increased corruption. So, the government must reconsider the order.

AITF members have also forwarded a copy of the order to the CMs of Punjab and Delhi, along with a copy of AAP’s manifesto for Punjab, and requested for an immediate withdrawal of the order.

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