Siddaramaiah warns Karnataka officials against missing tax collection targets

In a firm warning to government officials, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that those who fail to meet the commercial tax collection targets will be held accountable. During a review meeting held to assess the progress of tax collections, Siddaramaiah emphasised that it is critical for tax collections to remain on track, underscoring the importance of meeting financial goals for the state’s development.

The state has set an ambitious target of Rs 1,10,000 crore for commercial tax collection for the financial year 2024-25. As of the end of October, Rs 58,773 crore has been collected, which includes Rs 44,783 crore from the Goods and Services Tax (GST), Rs 13,193 crore from Karnataka Sales Tax (KST), and Rs 797 crore from professional tax. This means the state has achieved 53.5% of its target so far, marking an increase of Rs 5,957 crore compared to the same period last year.

Siddaramaiah pointed out that to meet the yearly target by March, the state must collect an average of Rs 10,200 crore per month over the next five months. “Achieving the target is essential for the state’s development,” he reiterated, stressing the need for coordinated efforts from all officials involved in tax collection.

To ensure progress, the Chief Minister announced that he would conduct monthly reviews to monitor performance closely. He made it clear that any official who does not meet the set targets will face accountability. Siddaramaiah also mentioned that the Kar Samadhana scheme, designed to resolve pending tax issues, is expected to contribute an additional Rs 2,000 crore to the state’s revenue.

The excise tax collection target for the current financial year is set at Rs 38,525 crore. As of October 28, the excise department has collected Rs 20,237 crore, achieving 52.53% of this target. This collection represents an increase of Rs 1,301.15 crore compared to the same period last year.

In light of these figures, Siddaramaiah instructed the excise department to take stringent measures against illegal liquor smuggling from Goa. He emphasised the need to adhere to the March deadline for achieving the tax collection target and warned that any allegations of corruption within the department would be addressed decisively.

Source: INDIA TODAY