We are not Criticising Government - IRS Association
THE CBEC in a letter dated 29.09.2016, had observed,
Of late, it has been noticed that some Associations/Federations have commented adversely on the Government and its policies. It may be brought to the notice of all Associations/Federations that if anyone indulges in criticism of the Government and its policies, appropriate action (including disciplinary action) shall be taken under Rule 9 of the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964. (Please see Don't Criticise Govt. - CBEC Tells Staff Associations - DDT 2941).
Perhaps to clarify its position, the IRS (C&CE) Association in a Resolution dated 06.10.2016 states:
1. IRS (C&CE) officers as well as Association are totally committed to very successful and smooth implementation of GST in the country w.e.f. 1st April, 2017.
2. Association has never ever opposed any decisions of the government nor intends to do so.
3. The representations made to Hon'ble Finance Minister are legitimate and the association will continue to take up the genuine concerns with the competent authorities appropriately.
4. CBEC& IRS officers have requisite experience of working smoothly and successfully in the field of Indirect Tax Administration in the country for decades and have witnessed several transitions without any glitch including when first time Service Tax was implemented in India in 1994.
5. At the moment, we assure one and all that we are for extremely successful implementation of GST and ready to do whatever is required. However, the State VAT officials may not be allowed to bring distortions in GST to weaken the Centre. A strong sustainable Centre is the need of the hour.
While the commitment and promise of the association are laudable what makes them think that the State VAT officials will bring distortions in GST to weaken the Centre? After all, the senior officers of the VAT in the States are officers of “All India Service" called the IAS, to which their illustrious boss, the Revenue Secretary also belongs. Further what does it mean by A strong sustainable Centre is the need of the hour ? Don't we have one already?
I tried to contact the Association by mail and phone but couldn't get a response.