Taxation dept asked to verify price rise plaints

SHILLONG: The state government has asked the Taxation Department to verify complaints against the skyrocketing prices of essential commodities in Meghalaya.
Minister of Taxation Zenith Sangma said although there were no official complaints but after unofficial reports, “I instructed the department to crosscheck and verify the complaints”.
The minister, however, expressed concern that people have not lodged any official complaint with the department against the phenomenon. “People hardly complain if they see injustice,” Sangma said.
It is alleged that some shopkeepers have taken advantage of GST (Goods and Services Tax), considered the biggest tax reform in the country, which may have the price hike.
Some shopkeepers on the other hand are of the opinion that price of commodities were increasing due to floods in neighbouring Assam, claiming that the goods were not delivered on time.
Admitting that there are hurdles in the implementation of GST, Sangma said, “Since GST is in a transition
period, there were a few hiccups and challenges for the department as well as dealers. But these challenges will be overcome.”
Unpacked foodgrains, fresh vegetables and fruit, unbranded atta, maida, gram flour, jaggery, milk, eggs, curd, lassi, unpacked paneer, unbranded natural honey, palmyra jaggery, salt, fresh meat, fish, chicken, butter milk and cereal grains (hulled) are exempted from GST.