Crackdown Alert: Assam’s Bold Move to Combat Illegal Diesel Transport with Stringent Documentation
The Assam government has implemented rigorous documentation requirements for the transport of Petroleum, Oil, and Lubricants (POL) within the state to combat illegal diesel transport and tax evasion. Under the Assam VAT Act, transporters must present a Road Permit in Form-62, along with an invoice, a consignment note, and a transporter’s manifesto. This measure aims to enhance transparency and prevent revenue losses. This initiative is part of a broader crackdown on fuel smuggling, with authorities enhancing vigilance and enforcement, particularly in border districts and major transit points.
Acting on directives from Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, Assam’s government has intensified efforts against illegal diesel transport. In a high-level video conference, the Chief Secretary discussed strategic actions with Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police to curb these illicit activities. The Finance Department’s Commissioner and Secretary highlighted that unlawful fuel transport has significantly impacted the state’s VAT collections.
To address this, the Tax Department, in collaboration with the Police Administration, will draft a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) that includes necessary penal provisions to combat the illegal influx of petroleum products. Concerns from the Petroleum Dealers Association have prompted officials to bolster enforcement mechanisms.
The government plans to strengthen physical surveillance in all affected districts, launching joint operations with police and tax officials. Specific orders have been issued for Lakhimpur and Tinsukia to coordinate joint vigilance efforts. Additionally, stringent monitoring of fuel movement between Assam and neighboring states will be enforced, with mandated inspections of petrol pump storage facilities and the implementation of GPS tracking systems for all fuel tankers.
The meeting brought together the Director General of Police, the Commissioner of Police in Guwahati, and other key stakeholders. Committed to public safety and minimizing revenue losses, the Assam government promises swift, decisive action and a zero-tolerance stance on fuel smuggling, ensuring transparency and regulatory compliance in the petroleum sector.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/story/assam-mandates-strict-documentation-for-pol-transport-to-curb-illegal-diesel-transport-1167959-2025-02-08?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-02-08 16:07:00
