Remarks of an old hand

By Vijay Kumar

An officer who retired more than thirty years ago remarked,

Although the country was then ruled by an alien power, it is to theireternal credit that the administration was totally assessee-friendly. The principle adopted was that the procedures should be such that they should be tailored to meet the requirements of Trade and Industry instead of other way about. Consequently, the senior officers went round the country to get a feedback and to find solutions for the practical difficulties of the assessees. Officers of all grades were also encouraged to come up with suggestions towards the same end. The working conditions were extremely harsh. No Government vehicle was provided at any level. Survey of tobacco fields required intensive visits to villages. However, thanks to the inspirational leadership and the motivation provided no one felt reluctant to undertake the onerous tasks.

Compare that with the pathetic state where a Member of the Board spends his time withdrawing the facility of monthly payment of excise duty to a factory in some remote area and thinks it is beyond appeal!