Uttarakhand GST officers carrying out a raid, unearthed a tax evasion racket worth over Rs 20 lakh several lakhs of rupees. This racket was allegedly run in collusion with joint commissioner-level officials. Under tight police security and in a highly confidential manner, two departmental teams from outside the Haldwani area carried out day-long raids, seizing a large quantity of goods brought in without or with falsified documents.
"The state tax headquarters had been constantly receiving information and complaints that transporters were bringing goods to Haldwani in the Kumaon region while evading taxes," a senior official informed, adding, "One of these transporters was also reported to have the patronage and support of a senior departmental officer at the level of joint commissioner.” Due to this, no major action could be taken against the transporter, said the officials. It was then decided by the Uttarakhand GST headquarters to take action against the transporters.
"Teams from Rudrapur raided two transport companies in Haldwani early this week. Over the next three days, the entire matter, including the goods and documents, was investigated," revealed an insider, adding that it was then revealed that goods worth over Rs 20 lakh had been brought in without paying taxes.
Tax officials said that under Section 130 of the GST Act, the total penalty on this consignment has been determined to be approximately Rs 25 lakh. The goods and transport vehicle are seized and will remain in the department's custody until the fine is paid.
This is one of the biggest raids ever conducted in Kumaon, in which the confidential action of the headquarters has resulted in great success.
"The role of a senior departmental officer and the use of her influence to threaten officials and obstruct departmental proceedings has also come to light, which is being investigated," revealed an insider.
He added that the state tax headquarters is contemplating taking separate action on this issue in accordance with the State Government's zero tolerance policy.
Reiterating the Uttarakhand government’s zero-tolerance policy against corruption, the officials said, "GST evasion will not be tolerated at all, and in case of negligence or any undue pressure on the officials, the headquarters will directly intervene to curb tax evasion. Chief Minister Pushakar Dhami, who also holds the finance ministry, has categorically exhibited his tough stand against corruption.”
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