Merchants said the previous bill format only had a VAT column, whereas now, there were about eight additional columns. Many have resorted to selling goods without bills.
The offices set up to assist people better understand the Goods and Service Tax (GST) are having a tough time dealing with the deluge of queries coming their way.
The new bill format issued for the implementation of GST has further added to the confusion.
Naresh Kuchhal, a businessman, said small traders were suffering the most. "Wholesalers are saying that they can only deliver goods if we provide our PAN and Aadhar details," said Kuchhal. "Small businessmen and vendors who do not have PAN and Aadhar numbers are unable to procure goods."
Traders say that while earlier they took a minute to prepare a bill, now, they take five to six minutes. In order to avoid the hassle, goods are being sold without bills. Merchants said the previous bill format only had a VAT column, whereas now, there were about eight additional columns.
"Businessmen should ensure that bills are being generated for all transactions," said Pradeep Kumar, additional commissioner. "A trader can issue the bill based on the old Tax Identification Number [TIN] if he has not yet received the GST Identification Number [GSTIN]. Action will be taken against those who do not issue bills.”
