GST Raids in Kangra: Counterfeit Cigarettes, Tobacco Products and Unbilled Stock Found

September 11, 2026

Dharamshala: The GST Department has intensified its crackdown on tax evasion and business transactions conducted without invoices in Kangra. On Friday, a team from the Shimla GST office inspected four business establishments in Jasur and Damtal. During the operation, the team discovered counterfeit cigarettes, tobacco products and stock lacking proper invoices.

This action was taken under the directives of GST Commissioner Ujjwal Rana. The teams inspected the goods present at the establishments and examined bills, documents and stock records related to purchases and sales. The department is now investigating the source of this suspicious stock and the records pertaining to its trade.

Counterfeit Cigarettes and Unbilled Goods Found

At the ‘Khiladi Bidi’ establishment in Jasur, an inspection of cigarettes and tobacco products was conducted. Counterfeit cigarettes and goods without invoices were found there. Officials cross-verified the stock present on-site against the available documentation.

The GST team also conducted an inspection at ‘Vinod Traders’ in Damtal. Counterfeit cigarettes, tobacco products and unbilled stock were discovered there as well. The team examined the existing inventory and relevant records.

GST Returns to Be Cross-Verified

The departmental investigation will involve cross-verifying bills, e-way bills, purchase and sale records, stock levels and GST returns. If irregularities or tax evasion are proven, the concerned trader may face tax recovery, penalties and other legal actions.

The discovery of counterfeit cigarettes has added a serious dimension to the case. However, final confirmation regarding whether these products are indeed counterfeit will only be established following brand verification and technical analysis.

Departmental Investigation Underway

According to sources, the department has its eye on other traders in the area as well, though there is no confirmed information yet regarding action against other establishments. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Details regarding the quantity, value and potential tax liability of the seized stock will become clear only after the department’s report is released.