Rourkela: In bad news for absconding offenders of GST, the department is set to go after them with all seriousness. This was told by Satyendra Kumar Singh, the chief commissioner, GST, Central Excise, Bhubaneswar Zone, Odisha Wednesday during an interaction at Chamber Bhawan, the official building of Rourkela Chamber of Commerce and Industries (RCCI). When asked about the absconders, with special reference to Rourkela, Singh said, “It is there in my mind and soon we are going to go after them.
So, far we have managed to arrest two in this regard and soon actions will be visible against them.” This question was asked to him in connection to the number of absconders from the city. The city GST department had put posters in front of their houses as absconders and had made requests to furnish information about them. The commissioner was here to interact with the members of RCCI.
Speaking about his visit to the city, the chief commissioner explained that his post was not that of an enforcer rather a facilitator. “I am not going to enforce things on anyone. The time has changed. I am a facilitator. So, I thought instead of people going from here on an individual basis to meet me, let me talk to them in a group and try to understand the collective issues. This will help me to get more insight into the problems and it will be easier for me to address their issues. Those I can tackle I will, and in case of issues beyond my purview I will refer those above me,” he said citing an example of the 3B and 2B issues which are real issues for businessmen. I could come to know about it and now let us see what can be done to resolve them.”
Speaking about the state GST scenario, he said, “Odisha is maintaining collections above the national average by 7- 8%.” The commissioner informed that the state collection now stands at Rs 23,000 crore and Rourkela contributes over Rs 10,200 crores being a big trading and industry hub of the state. He advised all to take advantage of the ‘Mera Bill Mera Adhikar’. This is really very helpful to all and I must tell all my business friends not to hesitate in using this new initiative of the government.”
