Punjab Attaches 136 Properties Worth Rs 91 Crore in Crackdown on GST Defaulters

The Punjab government has intensified its efforts to recover pending tax dues by attaching 136 properties worth over ₹91 crore in a major crackdown on pre-GST defaulters. The action signals a stricter approach toward long-standing arrears while maintaining compliance opportunities for legitimate businesses.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the state administration has launched a comprehensive recovery drive aimed at strengthening revenue collection. Officials described the initiative as part of a balanced strategy that supports honest traders while taking firm action against deliberate tax evasion.

According to the state finance department, properties valued at ₹91.10 crore have been attached to recover outstanding pre-GST liabilities. Out of these, assets worth ₹15.27 crore have already been auctioned, enabling the government to recover a portion of the dues. Several additional properties are in the process of being auctioned following official approvals.

Recovery drive expands across districts

Official data indicates that 78 attached properties worth ₹50.58 crore are located in key districts across Punjab. Meanwhile, 58 properties valued at ₹40.52 crore are situated in other districts, states, or Union Territories.

Authorities have granted approval for the auction of 35 properties worth ₹33.77 crore. Auction dates have been finalised for 21 properties valued at ₹13.68 crore. In addition, recovery proceedings have been initiated for 15 properties worth ₹16.42 crore, with permissions currently under consideration.

The government has also issued recovery certificates at the Deputy Commissioner level for 24 properties valued at ₹10.61 crore, further accelerating the recovery process.

One-Time Settlement scheme offers relief

To encourage voluntary compliance, the state has extended its One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme, offering traders an opportunity to clear pending pre-GST liabilities. Officials described the scheme as a “golden opportunity” for businesses to resolve outstanding dues and regularise their tax status.

At the same time, authorities warned that strict enforcement measures, including property attachment and auction, will continue against persistent defaulters who fail to comply.

The Mann government has presented the recovery drive as part of broader financial discipline efforts aimed at improving fiscal health and ensuring fair tax compliance. By combining enforcement with settlement options, the administration aims to protect revenue streams while supporting genuine businesses.

The crackdown reflects a wider trend among state governments to address legacy tax dues following the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax system. Officials emphasised that strengthening revenue recovery remains essential for funding public services, infrastructure development, and welfare programmes.

With auctions underway and additional enforcement actions expected, the Punjab government has made it clear that recovery proceedings will continue alongside compliance initiatives. Businesses have been urged to take advantage of the settlement window to avoid legal and financial consequences.