Guwahati, Assam – In a significant crackdown on the illicit tobacco trade, state GST officers have seized a massive consignment of gutkha and tobacco products worth crores, resulting in hefty fines imposed on two logistics companies. The seizure was made at Mirza Railway Station in Guwahati, where a parcel train from Delhi was intercepted on September 14, 2024.
According to officials, the seized consignments included popular brands such as Shikhar 1000, SS-One Zarda, Signature Pan Masala, and Action 7 Zarda. These products were being transported by M/s TNS Express Pvt. Ltd and M/s AVG Logistics Ltd, which have been issued show-cause notices with fines totaling Rs 18.9 crore.
The GST officers conducted a thorough physical verification of the goods under uninterrupted videography and found that the items were being carried without the requisite E-way Bills and accompanying documentation. This violation of GST regulations led to the imposition of the hefty penalty.
The trucks carrying the seized goods are currently stationed at the Commissionerate’s campus in Kar Bhawan, Dispur, Guwahati, and will only be released after the payment of the penalty is completed. This crackdown on illicit tobacco trade is a significant step towards enforcing GST regulations and preventing tax evasion.
The seized goods were loaded in cartons and transferred to 48 trucks, highlighting the large scale of the smuggling operation. The authorities’ swift action sends a strong message to those involved in such illegal activities.
This development comes amid growing concerns about the impact of tobacco use on public health. According to recent studies, tobacco product use during adolescence increases the risk for lifelong nicotine addiction and adverse health consequences. The crackdown on illicit tobacco trade is a crucial step towards reducing the availability of such products and promoting public health.
In conclusion, the Guwahati authorities’ seizure of the gutkha and tobacco shipment and imposition of hefty fines on the logistics companies involved demonstrates their commitment to enforcing GST regulations and preventing tax evasion. This action also highlights the need for continued vigilance in combating illicit trade and promoting public health.
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