Maharashtra CM writes to PM Modi for extension of GST Returns for March and April

Maharashtra CM writes a letter to PM Modi on Various measures to be undertaken in view of COVID-19

Extract of the letter

Respected Pradhanmantri

The State of Maharashtra, and many other states are facing a huge surge in COVID-19 patients during the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic.

The State desires to provide following relief to the citizens in view of difficulties faced by them due to the above reason:

1. The timeline for submitting the GST returns for the month of March, April, may be extended by 3 months for small and medium taxpayers.

2. In view of the COVID- 19 pandemic situation in the State, a mini lockdown is a necessity. COVID-19 pandemic may be notified as a natural calamity for State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). Accordingly the State may be allowed to pay Gratuitous Relief (GR) of Rs 100/- per adult per day and Rs 60/- per child per day during the period of lockdown to all the Antodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Priority House Hold (PHH ) family members whose names are included in the AAY and PIM ration cards. They are the ones whose livelihood are seriously affected due to lockdown. The said expenditure may be allowed from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) during the current financial year.

3. The first installment of central share of SDRF may be released to the State to tide over the financial situation arising out of COVID-19 pandemic.

4. Many small scale industries, businesses, startups have taken bank loans under different GOI schemes and have supported the country in becoming Atmanirbhar in various sectors. These today are reeling under impact of COVID restrictions on many economic activities. Even when a sector is not restricted, contraction in demand during these times is quite evident. Given this scenario, we must come out with a helping hand for their survival. It is thus requested that banks may be asked to defer the instalments that are becoming due at least in first quarter of current financial year may be postponed without interest. This is akin to Force Majeure for business relationship between these entrepreneurs and banks.

We thank you in anticipation.

Yours sincerely,

Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray

To.

Hon. Shri Narendra Modi ji Prime Minister of India, Prime Minister Office, South Block, Raisina Hill, New Delhi -110011.