Chandigarh, June 6
In a major offensive against tax evasion, Punjab Finance, Excise and Taxation Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema announced that the state’s taxation department has launched a large-scale enforcement drive within the iron and steel sector, resulting in the detention of over 200 vehicles and the seizure of goods with an estimated market value of ₹7 crore.
Reaffirming the Punjab Government’s zero-tolerance policy towards tax evasion, Cheema said the special drive is aimed at curbing bogus billing and the transportation of goods without proper documentation. He added that penalties against violators are expected to exceed ₹3.5 crore. Sharing details of the operation, the Finance Minister said the State Investigation & Preventive Unit (SIPU) of the taxation department carried out the strategic enforcement drive, focusing on Punjab’s key iron and steel belt, including Mandi Gobindgarh, Khanna and adjoining areas.
“The primary objective of the operation was to decisively curb tax evasion through illegal practices in the iron and steel sector,” Cheema stated. According to the Minister, more than 200 vehicles transporting iron scrap and finished steel goods were detained for detailed verification during the special action. The total quantity of intercepted goods is estimated to be over 2,400 metric tonnes. Cheema further revealed that preliminary scrutiny indicated several consignments were being transported either without proper invoices and e-way bills or with documentation that appeared highly suspicious.
The Finance Minister reiterated that the department is conducting a comprehensive investigation into the network of bogus billing linked to the sector. He warned that strict legal action would be taken against all individuals and entities found involved in activities that undermine the state’s revenue growth. The ongoing crackdown is part of the Punjab Government’s efforts to strengthen tax compliance and prevent revenue leakages in the state.
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