135 GST Violations Detected; Rs11.84 Lakh Penalty Imposed During Enforcement Drive

SRINAGAR: A large-scale enforcement drive under the ongoing implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) 2.0 reforms in Jammu and Kashmir has led to the detection of 135 violation cases, with 82 compounded on the spot and penalties amounting to Rs11.84 lakh imposed on erring traders.

The drive was reviewed during a meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo to assess the progress and enforcement of GST 2.0 reforms across the Union Territory. The reforms, aligned with the recommendations of the 56th GST Council Meeting held on September 3, 2025, aim to ensure that the benefits of tax reductions, particularly on lifesaving medicines and essential commodities, reach end consumers directly.

During the meeting, the Chief Secretary emphasised rigorous market inspections and public awareness campaigns to prevent profiteering and guarantee that reduced tax benefits translate into lower prices for consumers. “It is our foremost responsibility to ensure these objectives are met under every circumstance,” Dulloo said, reiterating the government’s focus on affordability and transparency.

Principal Secretary, Finance, Santosh D. Vaidya, informed that nine notifications under the J&K GST Act were promptly issued to operationalise the revised tax rates effective from September 22, 2025. He said the measures compel manufacturers to revise Maximum Retail Prices (MRPs) in line with anti-profiteering provisions.

Commissioner Secretary, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Saurabh Bhagat, reported that the Legal Metrology Department carried out 3,304 inspections across all districts to check overpricing and ensure accurate pricing of pre-packed commodities. In parallel, the State Taxes Department issued 28 notices for non-issuance of invoices and incorrect tax computation, proposing additional penalties totalling Rs5.60 lakh.

The government has directed manufacturers and importers to circulate revised price lists to dealers and update MRPs on existing stock. The Legal Metrology Department is currently monitoring the enforcement of 411 revised MRP lists from various companies to ensure that benefits reach consumers.

To widen awareness, the State Taxes Department and Legal Metrology have launched extensive public outreach efforts, including circulars in newspapers, radio and television sessions on Akashvani and Doordarshan, and over 150 consumer awareness camps held across districts.

Reaffirming the administration’s commitment, the Chief Secretary stated that strict monitoring and coordinated enforcement will continue to ensure that GST 2.0 reforms fulfil their objective of reducing the financial burden on citizens and making essential goods and healthcare more affordable throughout Jammu and Kashmir.