Anger among Punjab traders over pending GST and VAT refunds is growing. Various trade organizations say that despite raising the issue with the government repeatedly over the past 7-8 months, refunds have not been issued. According to reports, only ₹220 crore was paid in August, while approximately ₹650 crore remains pending. Traders reported that the issue was raised several times with Ludhiana DTC Director Randhir Kaur, who assured them of issuing refunds as soon as the website upgrade was completed.
Similarly, during Punjab Trade Commission Chairman Anil Thakur’s visit to Ludhiana, trade organizations raised the issue, and the government promised a quick solution. Trade organizations allege that the government remains indifferent to the problems of the business community. In an already fragile business environment, law and order challenges and anti-business policies are driving investors away from Punjab. Sunil Mehra, General Secretary of the Punjab Pradesh Vyapar Mandal, has stated that if pending refunds are not released soon, they will be forced to hold a statewide protest. A large meeting of traders from across the state will be convened soon to determine the strategy for the upcoming movement. Ludhiana businessman Rajesh Dhanda said, “The pending refunds of ₹650 crore are crushing the backs of small traders.”
The government must take immediate action, or the situation will worsen. Regarding the business environment, businessman Vivek Verma said, “Investor confidence in Punjab is already weak. Delays in refunds are making the situation worse. The government should ensure a transparent and speedy system.” Regarding the difficulties faced by small entrepreneurs, Vivek Jindal said, “Refund money is the capital of businessmen. If businessmen don’t have money, how will their businesses function?” Regarding the future of industry, businessman S.S. Khurana said, “If the government doesn’t release refunds on time, the exodus of industries will increase. Many units have already closed.”
