Not just taxpayers but respected and valued stakeholders in the economic progress : Mr P K Bhat

Srinagar, 28 May : Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) today met with Mr. P.K. Bhat, Commissioner State Taxes Department Jammu & Kashmir, to convey the pressing concerns of the business community in the Valley. The delegation was led by KTMF President Mohammad Yaseen Khan and was joined by senior trade representatives who include Bashir Ahmad Rather, Din Mohammad Mattoo, Fayaz Ahmad Ahangar, Zahoor Ahmad Shah, Lateef Ahmad Sofi, Manzoor Ahmad Mir, Parvaiz Ahmad Dar, Arif Kareem and Qazi Tauseef.

In a statement issued said, KTMF President Mohammad Yaseen Khan voiced strong concern over the growing harassment of traders, as well as the unregulated growth of e-commerce operations in the region that are negatively impacting local trade. KTMF delegation urged the State Taxes Department to address the unchecked spread of e-commerce platforms in the region, highlighting the Tax Evasion & Revenue Loss.

Many other additional concerns were raised which include growing incidents of harassment of genuine traders in the name of tax inspections, delay in GST refunds, particularly affecting SMEs and retailers. Also ambiguities in input tax credit reconciliation and Proposal for regular awareness programs to support voluntary compliance, Khan stated.

Khan said, commissioner Mr P.K. Bhat gave a patient and thorough hearing to the KTMF delegation. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the business community and expressed deep appreciation for the vital role of traders in the economic framework of Jammu & Kashmir. Mr Bhat said, you are not just taxpayers but respected and valued stakeholders in the economic progress of this Union Territory,” Khan observed. He assured the delegation that the department is committed to ensuring fairness, accountability and a harassment-free environment for law-abiding traders. He also emphasized the importance of consultative policymaking and welcomed continuous interaction with KTMF on issues of mutual concern. Many senior officials of the State Taxes Department were present in the meeting who include Mr. Parvaiz Ahmad Raina Additional Commissioner State Taxes Department.