Ahemdabad: With Diwali just days away, the Gujarat State GST (SGST) department launched a major crackdown on firecracker traders across the state on Friday, targeting overpricing and tax evasion.

SGST teams have begun inspections at over 50 businesses, with intensive checks in Ahmedabad and Surat. Officers are examining billing records, accounts, and stock registers to ensure traders sell goods at or below MRP and comply with tax regulations.

In Surat and Navsari, officials searched the premises of traders suspected of GST manipulation and using fake invoices, seizing documents from multiple shops and godowns.

In Himatnagar, the business and residence of trader Gurumukhdas were searched, along with nearby godowns storing large quantities of firecrackers.

Similar operations were carried out in Gandhidham, Kutch, targeting major businesses owned by Haresh and Bharat Ramvani.

Early findings suggest possible tax evasion worth several crores. Traders confirmed that officials are scrutinizing records and stock inventories. Following complaints of overcharging during Navratri Garba events, authorities have indicated more raids may follow ahead of Diwali. DeshGujarat