Clearing pending assessments - Kerala

Kerala introduced VAT from 1 April 2005. The assessments under the KGST Act were for 4 to 5 years in arrears in case of majority of assessees. The Finance Minister and the Commercial Taxes Department realised that completion of pending assessments under the KGST Act was affecting the proper administration of VAT. They then came out out with a novel scheme - Adalats to clear pending cases. Teams of 4 assessing officers were created to sit together and complete the assessments. Decisions were taken by the team on the spot and the assessee was informed the balance amount of tax due and a challan was issued. As soon as the assessee made the payment, assessment orders signed by all the members of the team was issued.

Today, 20th Nov 2007, a Mega Adalat was conducted for the Ernakulam Dist at Town Hall in Ernakulam. It is said that more than 3000 cases are likely to be cleared. The Finance Minister was at the venue personally to ensure that proper arrangements were made.

I record my appreciation of the arrangements made at the venue. The reception area was well manned and each person was issued a numbered token and directed to the booth were the assessing officers were available. Inside the hall, cubicles were arranged on the sides for the various circles and excellent arrangements were made for seating of the visitors. The Adalat was conducted in a very professional manner and the entire process completed in 15 to 20 minutes. The officers of the Department appear to have worked really hard to have all the paper work done in time. I must also commend the Department for ensuring the welfare of the officers by proving good food and other amenities.

Good work. And a big thank you from the assessees for hassle free completion of the assessments.

Source : Goods And Service Tax India - http://www.gstaxindia.com, dated 20/11/2007