200 vehicles detained, ₹5 crore goods seized in Punjab tax evasion crackdown: Punjab minister

Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said the state's taxation department detained more than 200 vehicles and seized goods valued at approximately ₹5 crore during a crackdown against tax evaders in the iron and steel sector. The operation targeted bogus billing and movement of goods without proper documentation, concentrated in the iron and steel belt around Mandi Gobindgarh, Khanna, and adjoining areas. The authorities detained over 200 vehicles transporting iron scrap and finished steel goods for verification, with the total involved quantity estimated at over 1,600 metric tonnes and a market value of around ₹5 crore. Preliminary scrutiny indicated several consignments moved without proper invoices and e-way bills or were supported by suspected bogus documentation. Proceedings under GST law have been initiated against defaulters, with penalties expected to exceed ₹3 crore, pending detailed verification and adjudication. Enforcement teams have been directed to verify quickly and recover due tax and penalties; such drives will continue across the state.