Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, during a review meeting of the state tax department, termed tax evasion a “national crime” and directed officials to take stringent measures to curb it.
Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has once again reinforced his b administrative image. In a review meeting of the state tax department held in Lucknow, he labeled tax evasion a “national crime” and directed strict action against fraudulent companies. He stated that tax evasion is not only a violation of the law but also a betrayal of the state's economy and development initiatives.
The Chief Minister emphasized that revenue is not merely a matter of figures but the foundation of Uttar Pradesh's future. This money is invested in schemes for the poor, roads, schools, and hospitals. Therefore, those who evade taxes are obstructing the state's progress.
No Mercy for Shell Companies
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath specifically mentioned shell companies during the meeting, stating that these companies are created to circumvent the tax system and lack genuine economic activity. He instructed that such entities be identified and dealt with decisively.
He also clarified that physical verification, not just documentation, will be the new standard. On-ground verification of newly registered companies has been made mandatory to prevent fraud.
Tax Collection Status and Targets
State tax officials informed the Chief Minister that a total of ₹18,161.59 crore was collected from GST and VAT in April and May 2025. This is considered a positive start towards the target of ₹1,75,725 crore set for this fiscal year (2025-26). The Chief Minister expressed satisfaction but also cautioned that the path ahead is not easy. He urged officials, "Now is the time to buckle down and achieve 100% of the target."
Top Performers and Underperformers
The Chief Minister commended districts like both Lucknow zones, Gautam Budh Nagar, Ghaziabad, Agra, Ayodhya, Meerut, Bareilly, Jhansi, and Saharanpur, which recorded tax collection of 60% or more. Conversely, he expressed displeasure with the performance of Varanasi-1, Prayagraj, Kanpur-2, Etawah, Aligarh, and Moradabad zones, whose tax collection fell below 50%. The Chief Minister has requested a special review report from the officers of these zones and ordered them to prepare a concrete action plan to increase collections.
Key Statements by CM Yogi
In the meeting, the Chief Minister made some strict but clear points:
- The strictest action should be taken against traders who are making a mockery of the tax system's integrity.
- Engage with traders, but those who commit fraud should not be spared.
- Action teams should be formed in every zone to investigate suspicious firms.
- Honest taxpayers should receive protection and respect at every level.
Future Strategy
The Chief Minister instructed officials to accelerate work at the field level. He gave three key instructions:
- Increase field visits: Additional Commissioners, Joint Commissioners, and Deputy Commissioners should personally meet with traders, spread tax awareness, and address their concerns.
- Enhance technological surveillance: The adoption of technological measures such as data analytics, AI, and real-time monitoring was emphasized to prevent tax evasion.
- Launch special drives: Special campaigns should be conducted in underperforming zones to explore new avenues for tax collection.
