Srinagar, May 30: In a significant step towards fostering a more transparent and efficient tax administration, the Jammu & Kashmir State Taxes Department today held a productive GST compliance and grievance redressal meeting with a delegation from the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) Kashmir, led by Co-Chairman Mr. Himayu Wani along with EC members Madeena Mir, Bilal Kawoosa, CA Anil Sharma, Syed Pervaiz Qaiser, Shabir Abdullah, Er Owais Raja, Shahid Khan and Deputy Director Iqbal Fayaz Jan

 The meeting was chaired by  P.K. Bhat (JKAS), Commissioner, State Taxes, and attended by Mr. Parveez Ahmad Raina (JKAS), Additional Commissioner, State Taxes (Administration & Enforcement), Kashmir, along with prominent members of the Kashmir business community and GST professionals. 

 The delegation raised concerns over the pending establishment of the tribunal, which has delayed dispute resolution. Simplified Compliance & Taxpayer Facilitation – Businesses highlighted challenges in filing returns, technical glitches, and procedural complexities. The department committed to for Introducing Social media video tutorials and welcome letters for new GST registrants, Enhancing collaboration with the Industries Department for smoother Udyam and GST registrations, Addressing concerns of women entrepreneurs through dedicated awareness programs, Handicraft Sector Support – Special provisions for the movement of handicraft goods during exhibitions were discussed with the department,  reaffirming existing notifications for 28 handicraft to facilitate trade. Post-Crisis Relief Measures – Given the impact of recent business disruptions, businesses sought leniency in tax payments where genuine hardships exist. The department assured a compassionate review of such cases within legal frameworks.

 Combating Tax Evasion – Commissioner Bhat highlighted the surge in fake GST registrations and tax evasions, emphasizing that advanced online mechanisms have helped the department to identify fraudulent businesses. He urged all stakeholders to work ethically and contribute responsibly to J&K’s economic growth. Mr. P.K. Bhat (JKAS), Commissioner, State Taxes, stated: 

"The relationship between taxpayers and the department is symbiotic—like two sides of the same coin. We are committed to a balanced approach, ensuring compliance while addressing genuine concerns through dialogue and facilitation." 

 Parveez Ahmad Raina (JKAS), Additional Commissioner, added: “Our focus remains on fairness and reform. While enforcement is necessary, we are equally invested in grievance redressal, especially for sectors recovering from unprecedented challenges." 

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to collaborative governance, ethical tax compliance, and economic growth in Jammu & Kashmir.