The State Government of Himachal Pradesh, led by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has introduced measures to assist vehicle owners who have not yet registered their vehicles. This initiative aims to provide an opportunity for owners of various vehicles, including goods carriers, two-wheelers, tractors, poclain, JCB, and four-wheelers, to register their vehicles at the current market price without incurring penalties. The government’s decision seeks to promote compliance with registration requirements, enhance road safety, and benefit thousands of people in the state. Hassle-Free Vehicle Registration And Penalty Waivers
Registration Opportunity for Vehicle Owners:
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the State Government of Himachal Pradesh has announced a special registration opportunity for vehicle owners. This initiative allows owners of goods carriers, two-wheelers, tractors, poclain, JCB, and other four-wheelers to register their vehicles at the prevailing market price without facing penalties. By availing this opportunity, vehicle owners can ensure compliance with registration requirements and mitigate the risks associated with driving unregistered vehicles.
Waiver of Penalties and Interest on Passengers and Goods Tax (PGT): Hassle-Free Vehicle Registration
In addition to the registration opportunity, the state government has decided to waive off penalties and interest charges for defaulters of Passengers and Goods Tax (PGT). This relief is applicable to individuals who have outstanding tax liabilities and aims to facilitate the implementation of the Special Road Tax as a replacement for PGT. The government has set a deadline of June 30, 2023, for PGT defaulters to take advantage of this facility. To obtain the No Objection and Tax Clearance, defaulters must pay a one-time settlement fee along with the principal amount and obtain clearance from the Transport Department for vehicle passing and operation.
Benefits for Vehicle Owners and Taxpayers:
The government’s initiatives provide significant benefits to vehicle owners and taxpayers in Himachal Pradesh. A total of 1,60,291 goods carrier owners, including those with small and large goods vehicles as well as tractors, will benefit from this relief. These owners have faced financial difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in increased PGT liabilities. The state government has adopted a humanitarian approach to address these challenges and resolve all tax liability cases in a single instance. This measure allows vehicle owners to regularize their tax liabilities, resume their operations, and alleviate the burden of accumulated penalties and interest charges.
Chief Minister’s Perspective:
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed his satisfaction with the government’s decision to provide relief to PGT defaulters. Previously, defaulters were subjected to 18 percent interest charges on the principal amount and penalties ranging from Rs. 100 to Rs. 5000 per quarter. However, the government’s waiver of these penalties and interest charges offers significant relief to owners of goods vehicles. This relaxation is particularly crucial amid the challenging circumstances posed by the pandemic. The government’s focus on assistance and economic recovery will contribute to the overall growth and development of Himachal Pradesh.
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