GST Dialogue: J&K State Taxes Department Engages Kashmir Trader Fraternity to Address Key Concerns

In a significant outreach initiative, the Jammu & Kashmir State Taxes Department held a comprehensive GST interaction meeting with the Kashmir Trader Fraternity today. The session was chaired by Commissioner State Taxes, Mr. P. K. Bhat (JKAS), alongside Additional Commissioner, Mr. Parveez Ahmad Raina (JKAS), who oversees Administration & Enforcement in Kashmir.

The meeting served as an open platform for constructive dialogue between tax officials and representatives from various trader associations, aimed at addressing challenges and grievances under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime.

🔍 Key Issues Raised by the Trade Community:
Compliance Burden: Traders, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), expressed concern over the complexity of GST return filings, citing limited accounting infrastructure as a hurdle.

Technical Glitches: Frequent technical issues with the GST portal—such as slow processing, login errors, and invoice upload failures—were highlighted as major roadblocks to seamless compliance.

Delayed Input Tax Credit (ITC): Participants flagged delays and mismatches in ITC claims, noting that such disruptions strain cash flow and working capital.

Need for Awareness & Capacity Building: A demand was made for more simplified guidance, regular workshops, and easy-to-understand resources to help businesses stay updated with evolving GST regulations.

Enforcement-Related Concerns: Traders voiced unease about enforcement actions being taken without prior engagement or clarification, which they said creates anxiety among compliant businesses.

Sector-Specific Relief Sought: Calls were made for tailored GST reforms and relief measures for key sectors of the local economy, including handicrafts, horticulture, and tourism.

🗣️ Official Response:
Commissioner P. K. Bhat and Additional Commissioner Parveez Ahmad Raina acknowledged the concerns and reaffirmed the department's commitment to building a transparent, responsive, and trader-friendly tax environment. Officials assured that steps will be taken to:

Streamline GST compliance processes

Strengthen the GST portal's functionality

Improve communication with the business community

Address sector-specific challenges in consultation with stakeholders

The meeting concluded on a positive note with a mutual commitment to continue such interactive sessions regularly, fostering greater trust and collaboration between the government and the business community in Kashmir.