CGST intercepts 50 coke-laden vehicles in Assam, traders question enforcement procedure

Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) authorities have reportedly intercepted around 50 vehicles transporting coke across several districts of Lower Assam, including Kamrup, Barpeta and Dhubri, during a series of operations conducted between Friday night and Monday.

The intercepted consignments of lam coke are estimated to be worth around Rs 3 crore. As of Wednesday, around 27 vehicles were reportedly still detained at a parking facility in Changsari.

The interceptions have triggered questions from vehicle owners and drivers, some of whom have denied any wrongdoing and questioned the basis and procedure of the enforcement action.

Speaking to India Today, some drivers and vehicle owners alleged that there could be an attempt to create a syndicate and illegally collect money even after applicable taxes had been paid. These allegations have not been independently verified.

CGST Guwahati officials, meanwhile, said the matter is under examination and that no final finding of wrongdoing has been established so far.

Questions have also been raised over the documentation and procedure followed during the interceptions, including whether relevant GST enforcement documents, such as MOV-1 and MOV-2, were issued wherever applicable.

The dispute has brought into focus the need to establish whether the intercepted consignments were being transported in compliance with GST requirements or whether there were discrepancies in invoices, e-way bills, tax payments or other statutory documents.

A detailed examination of the consignments, invoices, e-way bills, GST records and interception-related documents is expected to determine whether the vehicles were involved in tax violations or whether there were procedural issues in the enforcement action.

With claims from traders and vehicle operators differing from the position of enforcement authorities, the matter remains under examination. No conclusion regarding tax evasion, procedural violations or misconduct can be drawn until the relevant records and evidence are independently verified.

India Today will continue to track the developments and report verified findings as they emerge.