State Taxes Deptt collects ₹1.41 cr in GST penalties

Srinagar, Dec 4: The Central Enforcement Wing of the State Taxes Department, Kashmir, has collected ₹1.41 crore in penalties for GST violations in the ongoing financial year, a 27% increase over last year.
An official told Rising Kashmir that the penalties were imposed on traders who transported goods in violation of the GST Act and Rules. “The achievement is a significant milestone in the financial year 2024-2025,” he added.
He said that the drive against tax violators intensified in recent months, with September 2024 witnessing a 50% increase in penalties compared to last year. “In October and November, penalties rose by 113% and 24% respectively.”
The official said that the enforcement activities are led by Deputy Commissioner State Taxes, Central Kashmir, Waseem Raja, under the supervision of Commissioner State Taxes, P K Bhat. “The team’s dedication has set a benchmark in enforcing tax compliance,” he added.
He also said that round-the-clock enforcement operations are conducted in Srinagar, Ganderbal, and Budgam districts by three teams led by State Taxes Officers Aijaz Ahmad Wani, Abdul Shakoor Malik, and Sanjeev Gupta. “These efforts are supported by field staff, including inspectors, sub-inspectors, and guards,” he said.
He further said that the enforcement team at Srinagar airport, led by STO Irshad Asadullah, played a key role in targeting high-risk commodities like metal, cement, plywood, timber, and TMT bars. “Their efforts resulted in significant penalties being collected from tax defaulters.”
He said over three lakh e-way bills were verified during the enforcement activities across the three districts, marking a 27% increase compared to the previous financial year.
Commissioner of the State Taxes Department has praised the Central Enforcement Team for their achievements and commitment to ensure tax compliance. “The drive against tax violations will be further intensified to create a stronger deterrent,” the official added.