GST department raids cosmetic shop in Ludhiana; tax evasion alleged

December 2, 2025

A team from the GST department conducted a surprise raid on the famous Mani Ram Balwant Rai cosmetic shop at Pavilion Chowk in Ludhiana on Monday afternoon. Entry and exit were restricted upon arrival. Suspecting tax evasion, officials sealed the entire establishment and began a thorough examination of documents.

An employee who left the scene stated that department officials were completing their routine procedures, which could take time. Based on this, the investigation could drag on until late into the night.

According to sources, due to the team’s extended presence, dinner was also arranged for the officials, indicating that the investigation could continue into the night. However, no formal statement has been issued by the department yet.

Local traders and passersby at Pavilion Chowk are monitoring the situation. Normal operations at the shop have been completely suspended until the departmental action is complete. The GST department typically conducts its investigations without sharing any information with the public, so the true status of the case remains unclear without official confirmation.