Chandigarh, 17.05.26-: In a significant move to resolve long-pending VAT assessment cases, a delegation of the Chandigarh Beopar Mandal (CBM) called on Shri Anurag Thakur, Hon’ble Member of Parliament from Himachal Pradesh and former Union Cabinet Minister, who also served as Minister of State for Finance cum Corporate Affairs, during his visit to Chandigarh yesterday.

The delegation was led by Shri Sanjiv Chadha, President, CBM and Shri Charanjiv Singh, Chairman, CBM, Sushil Bansal Advisor CBM along with Senior office bearers Shri L D Sharma and Shri Sanjay Ahuja who also accompanied the delegation.

KEY ISSUES RAISED:

1. Long Pending VAT Assessments: Thousands of VAT assessment cases from the pre-GST regime remain unresolved in U.T. Chandigarh, causing undue hardship to traders and MSMEs. Many cases are pending for over 8-10 years due to procedural delays.

2. Demand for Amnesty Scheme: CBM urged for a one-time amnesty scheme on the lines of schemes launched by other states/UTs. The scheme should provide waiver of interest and penalty on payment of principal tax amount, enabling closure of legacy disputes.

3. Ease of Doing Business: Pending litigation blocks working capital and creates compliance anxiety for small businesses. An amnesty would help Chandigarh traders clean their books and focus on growth post-GST.

Shri Sanjiv Chadha, President CBM stated, “MSMEs are the backbone of Chandigarh’s economy. A practical amnesty scheme will give major relief to the business community and also help the Administration realize pending revenue stuck in litigation.”

Shri Charanjiv Singh, Chairman CBM added, “We are thankful to Shri Anurag Thakur ji for giving us a patient hearing. As a former MoS Finance, he understands these legacy issues deeply. We are hopeful he will take up our demand with the Finance Ministry and U.T. Administration.”

Shri Anurag Thakur appreciated CBM’s efforts and assured the delegation that he would examine the matter and extend all possible support for a positive resolution.

Diwakar Sahoonja, Vice Chairman CBM said that CBM will continue to pursue this issue with the Chandigarh Administration, Local MP and the Central Government to ensure early relief for the trading community at the earliest.