A&N GST Department intensifies compliance checks, fines bakery units for violating revised GST 2.0 norms

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Department of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands has intensified its inspection campaign to ensure strict adherence to the newly revised GST 2.0 framework. The drive follows observations that several business establishments have not fully complied with the updated tax rates, exemptions, and procedural regulations, despite sufficient time provided for transition.

Acting on directions from the Commissioner, UTGST, inspection teams conducted random checks at fifteen bakery establishments in Sri Vijaya Puram on October 30 and 31, 2025. The surprise inspections aimed to assess the implementation of the revised GST structure and detect non-compliance in billing and tax collection. During the checks, on-the-spot penalties were imposed on units found violating the updated norms, resulting in a total recovery of Rs 1,20,000, which was subsequently credited to the government account.

Officials emphasized that these inspections are part of a continuing enforcement strategy to safeguard consumer interests and ensure businesses operate transparently under the revised taxation system. The department has made clear that strict compliance with GST laws is not optional and that repeated violations will invite stringent penal actions under the GST Act.

The inspection drive, officials said, will be expanded across additional sectors in the coming weeks, targeting retail and service-based establishments that have yet to align with GST 2.0 protocols. The department aims to maintain a balance between enforcement and awareness, encouraging voluntary compliance while taking decisive action against habitual defaulters.

Business owners have been advised to review and update their billing systems, pricing displays, and tax documentation in accordance with the new GST rate notifications. The department has urged all entities to ensure customers are billed accurately and that revised rates are reflected transparently in transactions, aligning with the objective of consumer protection.

To assist stakeholders and address grievances, the GST Department has set up a dedicated WhatsApp helpline at 9595359698. This channel will handle complaints related to overcharging, incorrect billing, or any instance of non-compliance under GST 2.0 within the Union Territory.

The intensified enforcement underlines the administration’s broader goal of enhancing fiscal accountability and ensuring that the benefits of tax reforms reach the consumer level. The department reiterated that adherence to the revised GST norms strengthens trust in the taxation system and contributes to a fairer business environment across the islands.

By tightening oversight and enabling citizen participation through grievance mechanisms, the GST Department seeks to reinforce compliance culture while maintaining the integrity of the reformed tax structure under GST 2.0. A&N GST Department intensifies compliance checks, fines bakery units for violating revised GST 2.0 norms