KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, Dec 24: The State Taxes Department, Kashmir, under its Enforcement (Central) wing, has intensified its efforts to curb tax violations, resulting in penalties totaling Rs23,41,406 on major commodities like cement, scrap, TMT bars, timber, and plywood in the ongoing financial year 2024-2025 up to December.
This significant enforcement drive comes in the wake of strict directives from higher authorities to maintain a robust vigil on goods being transported across the state. The enforcement efforts, spearheaded by Deputy Commissioner State Taxes Enforcement (Central) Kashmir, Waseem Raja, and under the overall supervision of Commissioner State Taxes P.K. Bhat, have aimed to ensure compliance and deter violations.
Enforcement Teams in Action
Three dedicated field teams, supported by a flying squad, have been actively conducting enforcement activities in the districts of Srinagar, Budgam, and Ganderbal. These teams, comprising State Taxes Officers Aijaz Ahmad Wani, Abdul Shakoor Malik, and Sanjeev Gupta, along with inspectors, sub-inspectors, and guards, have carried out surprise checks and inspections, often during late hours and weekends.
Additionally, a specialized team led by STO Irshad Assadullah Jan is maintaining a vigilant watch at Srinagar Airport, focusing on mobile phones and other cargo items to prevent tax evasion.
Significant Penalty Hikes
Penalties on various commodities have seen notable increases compared to the previous financial year:
Cement: A penalty of Rs9 lakh was levied up to December 2024.
Scrap: Penalties surged to Rs2,47,494 this year, marking a staggering 162% rise compared to Rs94,590 in 2023-2024.
Timber and Plywood: Defaulters faced penalties totaling Rs9,84,654, up by 95% from Rs5,03,762 last year.
TMT Bars: Seizures led to penalties of Rs1,99,800, reflecting a 60% increase from Rs1,24,958 in the previous financial year.
Spike in Recent Months
The months of September, October, and November 2024 saw a notable surge in enforcement actions. Scrap violations alone accounted for Rs1,06,100 in penalties, a dramatic 268% rise from Rs28,800 during the same period last year. Cement-related penalties also climbed sharply, reaching Rs5,01,580 in the same three months.
Enhanced Efficiency Through Data Analytics
To further streamline operations, a Data Analytics Cell has been established under the leadership of DC Waseem Raja. The cell leverages the online MIS/E-way Bill portal to monitor transporter watchlists, track enroute vehicles, and provide critical data to field teams.
“The idea behind this initiative is to ensure smarter enforcement by utilizing technology to gather and act on vital information,” said Raja. The Data Cell’s efforts have significantly enhanced accuracy and efficiency, enabling real-time vigilance.
Round-the-Clock Vigilance
Raja praised the relentless efforts of the enforcement teams, noting that over two lakh e-way bills were verified between April and November 2024, marking a 45% increase compared to the same period last year.
“The higher authorities emphasized close monitoring of key commodities, and our teams have delivered commendable results. We aim to strengthen our efforts further and achieve even more tangible outcomes by the end of this financial year,” Raja stated.
Steady Progress
So far, the State Taxes Department has levied a total penalty of Rs1.52 crore on tax violations in the financial year 2024-2025. With continued vigilance and innovative strategies, the department aims to ensure compliance and maintain the integrity of the tax system across Jammu and Kashmir.
