Crackdown on non-duty paid liquor: Chief Minister orders
The CM highlighted a significant disparity between the tax targets and actual revenue in the Commercial Taxes Department
image for illustrative purpose
Hyderabad: Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, during a review meeting at the Dr. BR Ambedkar Secretariat, emphasized the need for all departments to meet their annual tax collection targets. The departments under scrutiny included Commercial Taxes, Excise, Registrations, Transport, Mines, and Underground Resources for the fiscal year 2023-24.
The Chief Minister highlighted a significant disparity between the tax targets and actual revenue in the Commercial Taxes Department, attributing this gap to the absence of over Rs.4000 crores previously received from the central government as GST compensation, which was no longer available this year.
Addressing concerns about non-duty-paid liquor entering the state from neighboring states, the Chief Minister instructed measures to halt this activity. He also noted discrepancies in liquor supply and sales calculations, urging strict actions and the installation of CCTV cameras in distilleries. To ensure better monitoring, the CM directed the installation of GPS in liquor delivery vehicles and emphasized accurate waybills.
Regarding infrastructure, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed disapproval of revenue-generating departments operating out of rented buildings. He instructed officials to prepare proposals for new buildings based on current needs, utilizing vacant government buildings in Hyderabad and district centers.
A comprehensive policy on sand sales was also on the agenda, with the Chief Minister emphasizing the need for proper tracking of sand supply vehicles to prevent illegal transportation. Additionally, fines imposed on mines in the past for rule violations were ordered to be promptly collected, with a request for a report on previously imposed and reduced fines.
In addressing long-standing concerns, the Chief Minister highlighted officials within the Mines Department, some of whom have remained in their positions for years despite allegations against them. Immediate transfers were ordered for these officials.
Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, State Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, Government Chief Secretary Shanti Kumari, and senior officials from relevant departments participated in the comprehensive review session.
