Red flag over ‘Plainsmen Business Community’ nomenclature
Does the term `businessman’ refer to all persons?-NSS
SE Report
GANGTOK, November 11: Expressing an outraged objection, Nagarik Sangharsha Samiti (NSS) today strongly censured the State government for repeatedly trying to nomenclature a section of the Sikkimese residents as ‘Plainsmen Business Community’.
“The use of the terminology ‘Plainsmen Business Community” is a misnomer and inappropriate in as much as persons deprived of equal rights at par with the former Sikkim Subject Holders are from different places and different avocations and professions”, said Prem Goyal, NSS chief coordinator in a press statement.
“To brand the heterogeneous group into ‘Plainsmen’ or ‘Business Community’ is to continue the perpetuation of injustice against each individual who, under the banner of Nagrik Sangharsha Samiti, has fought relentlessly for the past 33 years for being treated at par with the erstwhile Sikkim Subject Holders who became citizens of India on and from April 26,1975 only”.
NSS said that the terminology ‘businessmen’ can be safely used to describe all persons doing any and every kind of business for their livelihood irrespective of whether such persons are legally entitled to enjoy the socio-economic and political rights in Sikkim.
“Does the term `businessman’ refer to all persons? The Samiti would appreciate if the terms like ‘businessmen’ and ‘plainsmen’ are altogether avoided. This will go a long way in strengthening communal harmony, peace and brotherhood in a small State like Sikkim where we have been living like one family”, Mr. Goyal said.
The outcry of NSS is based on a news item carried by a local English daily which reported that the State government is examining ‘plainsmen business community for facilities at par with Sikkim subjects’.
NSS said that this exercise clearly demonstrates the fact that the ‘State Government is trying hard to extricate itself from the illegal and discriminatory policies being pursued for over three decades affecting a sizeable number of persons resident
in Sikkim until April 26, 1975-the historic day when Sikkim became a part of India’.
The body also accused the government of desperately trying to cover up its ‘illegal and discriminatory policies and practices’ by restoring to ‘misinformation and disinformation campaign’.
NSS claimed that it has ‘repeatedly made it clear that the State Government must concede its demand for equal treatment in socio-economic and political arena on the basis of all the applicable laws and rules in force in the State of Sikkim and that denial of equal treatment are violative of the Constitution and the rule of law’. It asserted that the sizeable number of residents of the pre-merger date, that is, April 26, 1975 is a group of bonafide Indian nationals from all communities and from different places in India and ‘not just those who run a business or hail from the plains’.
NSS also refuted the reported claims of the State government directing the ‘business community’ to prepare a charter of ‘grievances and demands for examination’.
“No communication has been received from the State Government on the issue and the question of submitting any list of grievances and demands does not arise at all. The demands and grievances of NSS have been repeatedly made known to the State and the Central Government right from 1977 and the one point formula is equal treatment to all those residents in Sikkim till April 26, 1975”, NSS said.
NSS also said that it is ‘ironic that Indian nationals already resident in Sikkim till April 26, 1975 were conveniently left out and are being treated as ‘second class citizens’ when 73,431 persons granted Indian citizenship who were neither Sikkim subject holders or Indian citizens taking April 26, 1975 as the cut off year.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Source:Sikkim Express)
THE OLD SETTLERS OF SIKKIM....................e.newsletter of the old settlers living in Sikkim prior to its merger with India who have a history of 130 years in Sikkim: .....Editor: S K Sarda
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
SCC SUBMITS MEMORANDUM TO GOVERNOR,CM
SIKKIM CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
M.G.MARG, GANGTOK,SIKKIM
DT 24 September 2008
PRESS RELEASE
A delegation of Sikkim Chamber of Commerce submitted a memorandum addressed to His Excellency, The Governor of Sikkim in the office of Rajbhawan, Gangtok this afternoon.
The memorandum drew the attention of His Excellency in respect of difficulties in compliance of Direct Tax laws in Sikkim.
“ May we take the liberty of reiterating here that review of the matter is of utmost importance in view of need to include prospective taxpayers of Sikkim in the National mainstream and this task can only be accomplished by a progressive, systematic and logical approach that may be acceptable to the first timer prospective assesses.”
The memorandum further says:
“It is once again most fervently submitted that in the interest of natural justice, the Act be made applicable from accounting year 2009-2010, uniformly on “non-Sikkimese” individuals and “other persons” as defined in Indian Income tax Act “
Attention of His Excellency has been drawn in respect to the pending demand to exempt from Indian Income Tax the 400 families of old settlers residing in Sikkim before the merger date i.e., 26th April 1975 who have been inadvertently left out.
The Old Settlers conveyed to the Government of India through His Excellency, The Governor of Sikkim its heartfelt grief for having been referred as “NON SIKKIMESE INDIVIDUALS” and the OLD SETTLERS would prefer to be denoted as “LEFT OUT SIKKIMESE” and their reference as “NON-SIKKIMESE INDIVIDUALS” may please be discontinued , as they have an inseparable bond and sense of belonging with the soil of Sikkim, with highest regard for its Monarchs who always held them in high esteem and most of us know of no other home.
The delegation also submitted similar memorandum to the office of Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim and to Income tax Office.
( Suresh Agarwal)
General Secretary
Sikkim Chamber of Commerce
Gangtok
M.G.MARG, GANGTOK,SIKKIM
DT 24 September 2008
PRESS RELEASE
A delegation of Sikkim Chamber of Commerce submitted a memorandum addressed to His Excellency, The Governor of Sikkim in the office of Rajbhawan, Gangtok this afternoon.
The memorandum drew the attention of His Excellency in respect of difficulties in compliance of Direct Tax laws in Sikkim.
“ May we take the liberty of reiterating here that review of the matter is of utmost importance in view of need to include prospective taxpayers of Sikkim in the National mainstream and this task can only be accomplished by a progressive, systematic and logical approach that may be acceptable to the first timer prospective assesses.”
The memorandum further says:
“It is once again most fervently submitted that in the interest of natural justice, the Act be made applicable from accounting year 2009-2010, uniformly on “non-Sikkimese” individuals and “other persons” as defined in Indian Income tax Act “
Attention of His Excellency has been drawn in respect to the pending demand to exempt from Indian Income Tax the 400 families of old settlers residing in Sikkim before the merger date i.e., 26th April 1975 who have been inadvertently left out.
The Old Settlers conveyed to the Government of India through His Excellency, The Governor of Sikkim its heartfelt grief for having been referred as “NON SIKKIMESE INDIVIDUALS” and the OLD SETTLERS would prefer to be denoted as “LEFT OUT SIKKIMESE” and their reference as “NON-SIKKIMESE INDIVIDUALS” may please be discontinued , as they have an inseparable bond and sense of belonging with the soil of Sikkim, with highest regard for its Monarchs who always held them in high esteem and most of us know of no other home.
The delegation also submitted similar memorandum to the office of Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim and to Income tax Office.
( Suresh Agarwal)
General Secretary
Sikkim Chamber of Commerce
Gangtok
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
PHASE II PROTEST ON INDIAN INCOME TAX STARTS IN SIKKIM
Lineage record for cut off year safeguard
Staff Reporter
(SIKKIM EXPRESS)
GANGTOK, September 22: Spiking up their level of protests, every member of the 35000 odd business community living in Sikkim will wear black bands and stick protest posters inside their business premises on September 24 and 25 to protest against the ‘discrimination’ meted out to the community by the Union government while implementing Income Tax Act 1961 in this Himalayan state.
Every business community member in Sikkim will wear black bands and display protest posters in their premises on September 24 and 25 to highlight our two main demands, said Sikkim Chamber of Commerce (SCC) president SK Sarda today in an emergency meeting of the body.
A large gathering of business community members from all the four districts had gathered at a local hotel here to accord their consent to the second phase of their protests in the Income Tax issue.
Volunteers have been selected by the body to oversee the preparations for the Gandhian protest in the State. Surveillance teams will also operating to see whether the protests are being followed by the business community members spread all over the State.
“Please don’t feel shy while wearing black bands. The band must be worn by the members continuously for two days at all places. The protest posters must be placed inside the premises”, Mr. Sarda told the gathering.
The SCC president also sported a black band today to signal the second phase of the protest by the business community here for their demands.
The first demand of the business community is – exemption of Income Tax for the 400 families of old business community and old settlers living in Sikkim before April 26, 1975, the date the erstwhile kingdom merged with India.
The second demand is for implementation of Direct Tax Laws to other non-exempted people of Sikkim on a ‘prospective date’ and not on April 1, 2007 as directed by the Union Finance Ministry.
The Union Finance Minister had said on the floor of the House that the Income Tax Act 1961 will apply on prospectively, said Mr. Sarda.
The SCC president also claimed that business community of Sikkim has been bracketed into ‘Non Sikkimese’ category by the Union government in the Finance Act. “This soil is our Sikkim. We have born here and will die here”, he said.
The old business community living here for generations should not be defined as ‘Non Sikkimese’ but as ‘Left out Sikkimese’, Mr. Sarda. The ‘Non Sikkimese’ description will not be accepted at any costs, he said.
During the second protest phase, the business community will also be submitting a reminder memorandum the Governor, Chief Minister and all concerned in the Union government urging them to redress the issue to its logical conclusion.
The business community had already submitted a memorandum to the Union Finance Minister on August 27 through the Sikkim Income Tax Office during the first phase of its Gandhian protest against the discriminations meted out to them.
Even after passage of a reasonable time, nothing conclusive has emerged from the Centre and delay on this will simply add difficulties both for the prospective tax payers and the administrator, said Mr. Sarda.
It may be recalled here that earlier this year, the Centre had exempted Sikkim subject holders from paying Direct Income Tax by passing an amendment in the Finance Bill of 2008.
People of Sikkimese origin having Sikkim subjects have been exempted from Direct Taxes as per the 26AAA clause paving way for the Act to be enforced in the state.
The era of Direct Taxes began in Sikkim with the Central Income Tax office starting its operations from August 6.
Old business community numbering to 400 families and other people working in the state represents a huge chunk of those people who do not have Sikkimese subjects and thus have to cough up taxes now as per Income Tax Act 1961.
This has triggered strong resentment among the local business community who do not have the Sikkim subjects or Certificate of Identifications though they have been living in the state for generations.
“Is this (discrimination) is our reward or punishment though we are living here since generations. It is very unfortunate. We (old business community) are also sons of this soil and have some rights”, said Suresh Agarwal, SCC general secretary to the gathering.
“We have become sacrificial lambs and it is a blot to the democracy”, he added.
On the need for a cut off year to segregate old business community from the rest, the SCC general secretary proposed for a safeguard exercise to chronicle a record
base of those business community members living in Sikkim since generations.
Stressing that this particular exercise is highly sensitive, Mr. Agarwal said that it is very important the members to know their history in Sikkim. An internal preparatory survey will be done to prepare our records and we will be ready to submit the records whenever the declaration process for a cut off year begins, he said.
The proposal was unanimously passed by the gathering.
Staff Reporter
(SIKKIM EXPRESS)
GANGTOK, September 22: Spiking up their level of protests, every member of the 35000 odd business community living in Sikkim will wear black bands and stick protest posters inside their business premises on September 24 and 25 to protest against the ‘discrimination’ meted out to the community by the Union government while implementing Income Tax Act 1961 in this Himalayan state.
Every business community member in Sikkim will wear black bands and display protest posters in their premises on September 24 and 25 to highlight our two main demands, said Sikkim Chamber of Commerce (SCC) president SK Sarda today in an emergency meeting of the body.
A large gathering of business community members from all the four districts had gathered at a local hotel here to accord their consent to the second phase of their protests in the Income Tax issue.
Volunteers have been selected by the body to oversee the preparations for the Gandhian protest in the State. Surveillance teams will also operating to see whether the protests are being followed by the business community members spread all over the State.
“Please don’t feel shy while wearing black bands. The band must be worn by the members continuously for two days at all places. The protest posters must be placed inside the premises”, Mr. Sarda told the gathering.
The SCC president also sported a black band today to signal the second phase of the protest by the business community here for their demands.
The first demand of the business community is – exemption of Income Tax for the 400 families of old business community and old settlers living in Sikkim before April 26, 1975, the date the erstwhile kingdom merged with India.
The second demand is for implementation of Direct Tax Laws to other non-exempted people of Sikkim on a ‘prospective date’ and not on April 1, 2007 as directed by the Union Finance Ministry.
The Union Finance Minister had said on the floor of the House that the Income Tax Act 1961 will apply on prospectively, said Mr. Sarda.
The SCC president also claimed that business community of Sikkim has been bracketed into ‘Non Sikkimese’ category by the Union government in the Finance Act. “This soil is our Sikkim. We have born here and will die here”, he said.
The old business community living here for generations should not be defined as ‘Non Sikkimese’ but as ‘Left out Sikkimese’, Mr. Sarda. The ‘Non Sikkimese’ description will not be accepted at any costs, he said.
During the second protest phase, the business community will also be submitting a reminder memorandum the Governor, Chief Minister and all concerned in the Union government urging them to redress the issue to its logical conclusion.
The business community had already submitted a memorandum to the Union Finance Minister on August 27 through the Sikkim Income Tax Office during the first phase of its Gandhian protest against the discriminations meted out to them.
Even after passage of a reasonable time, nothing conclusive has emerged from the Centre and delay on this will simply add difficulties both for the prospective tax payers and the administrator, said Mr. Sarda.
It may be recalled here that earlier this year, the Centre had exempted Sikkim subject holders from paying Direct Income Tax by passing an amendment in the Finance Bill of 2008.
People of Sikkimese origin having Sikkim subjects have been exempted from Direct Taxes as per the 26AAA clause paving way for the Act to be enforced in the state.
The era of Direct Taxes began in Sikkim with the Central Income Tax office starting its operations from August 6.
Old business community numbering to 400 families and other people working in the state represents a huge chunk of those people who do not have Sikkimese subjects and thus have to cough up taxes now as per Income Tax Act 1961.
This has triggered strong resentment among the local business community who do not have the Sikkim subjects or Certificate of Identifications though they have been living in the state for generations.
“Is this (discrimination) is our reward or punishment though we are living here since generations. It is very unfortunate. We (old business community) are also sons of this soil and have some rights”, said Suresh Agarwal, SCC general secretary to the gathering.
“We have become sacrificial lambs and it is a blot to the democracy”, he added.
On the need for a cut off year to segregate old business community from the rest, the SCC general secretary proposed for a safeguard exercise to chronicle a record
base of those business community members living in Sikkim since generations.
Stressing that this particular exercise is highly sensitive, Mr. Agarwal said that it is very important the members to know their history in Sikkim. An internal preparatory survey will be done to prepare our records and we will be ready to submit the records whenever the declaration process for a cut off year begins, he said.
The proposal was unanimously passed by the gathering.
Monday, September 22, 2008
PHASE II OF INCOME TAX PROTEST LAUNCHED IN SIKKIM
SIKKIM CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
M.G.MARG, GANGTOK,SIKKIM
Dated:22nd SEPT.08
PRESS RELEASE
ANNOUNCING PHASE II OF PROTEST ON INCOME TAX ISSUE
Under the aegis of Sikkim Chamber of Commerce a packed gathering of about 300 delegates of business enterprises and old settlers assembled at Gangtok on 22 Sept 2008 and approved going in for Phase II of the Protest on Central Income Tax Issue.
It is important to recall here that on 27th August 2008, more than 800 delegates of business enterprises, small and big and old settlers from all over Sikkim had assembled at the Newly Opened Income Tax Office at Gangtok and submitted a copy of memorandum addressed to Hon’ble Finance Minister Shri P Chidambaram seeking implementation of Income Tax Act from a future date and consideration of exemption from income tax for old settlers residing in Sikkim prior to date of merger i.e., 26th April 1975 .
The meeting noted with deep concern that even after passage of a reasonable time period from date of submission to the Ministry of Finance, nothing conclusive has emerged from Government of India and delay on this account would simply add difficulties both for the prospective tax payers and the administrator.
SCC in its memorandum had drawn attention of the Hon’ble Finance Minister to the difficulties that would be faced in compliance of Direct taxes in the State of Sikkim, if made applicable retrospectively from 1.4.2007.
The Chamber drew the attention of the Hon’ble Finance Minister to his speech made in Lok Sabha on 29th April 2008 wherein he had promised that:
“This( Income Tax Act 1961) will apply only prospectively”
The Sikkim Income Tax Manual 1948 ceased to operate only on 16th June 2008 and also in light of assurance of the Finance Minister in the Parliament for prospective implementation, the order for assessing the non- Sikkimese individuals from the accounting year 2007-08 is not just and has created much anguish and confusion leading to a state of helplessness to co-operate in such unpractical situation
Quoting the White Paper on Implementation of Direct Taxes in Sikkim, the SCC had submitted that in the course of discussions with Government of India on the implementation of direct tax laws in Sikkim, the State Government had rightfully requested as under:
“ The State Government would however like to reiterate its request that sufficient time should be given, before the direct tax laws are implemented, to create an awareness in the State on implementation of the direct tax laws and to educate and mentally prepare the people of the State of the new system of taxation and at the same time allow the State Government to sort out the transitional issues.”
It is regretful that quite inadvertently such an important issue raised and request made thereupon by Government of Sikkim, in larger public interest, was ignored and Instruction No 8/2008 dt 29th July 2008 was issued by CBDT unilaterally.
The general body drawn from all over Sikkim, therefore, resolved to continue with the Gandhian way of movement and unanimously agreed to launch the Second Phase of Protest on 24th and 25th September 2008 by wearing black band on arms and displaying Protest Posters in their premises, demanding from Government of India:
1. Exemption from Income Tax- also for old settlers, government officers and old businessmen of Sikkim.
2. Implementation of direct tax laws on other categories from accounting year 2009-2010.
In the reminder addressed to the Finance Minister the Chamber has held that review of the matter is of utmost importance in view of need to include prospective taxpayers of Sikkim in the National mainstream and this task can only be accomplished by a progressive, systematic and logical approach that may be acceptable to the first timer prospective assesses.
The Chamber has sought to further remind the Hon’ble Finance Minister that the issue of exemption from Indian Income Tax to 400 families of old settlers residing in Sikkim before the merger date i.e., 26th April 1975 who have been inadvertently left out is pending settlement and is under active consideration of both the Union and the State Governments.
The general body also decided to submit memorandums to His Excellency the Governor of Sikkim as well as to Hon’ble Chief Minister and all concerned in Union Government urging them to redress the issue to its logical conclusion.
The meeting thanked Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr Pawan Chamling and Government of Sikkim for their positive approach in the matter which shall go a long way to solve the issue.
( Suresh Agarwal)
General Secretary
Sikkim Chamber of Commerce
M.G.MARG, GANGTOK,SIKKIM
Dated:22nd SEPT.08
PRESS RELEASE
ANNOUNCING PHASE II OF PROTEST ON INCOME TAX ISSUE
Under the aegis of Sikkim Chamber of Commerce a packed gathering of about 300 delegates of business enterprises and old settlers assembled at Gangtok on 22 Sept 2008 and approved going in for Phase II of the Protest on Central Income Tax Issue.
It is important to recall here that on 27th August 2008, more than 800 delegates of business enterprises, small and big and old settlers from all over Sikkim had assembled at the Newly Opened Income Tax Office at Gangtok and submitted a copy of memorandum addressed to Hon’ble Finance Minister Shri P Chidambaram seeking implementation of Income Tax Act from a future date and consideration of exemption from income tax for old settlers residing in Sikkim prior to date of merger i.e., 26th April 1975 .
The meeting noted with deep concern that even after passage of a reasonable time period from date of submission to the Ministry of Finance, nothing conclusive has emerged from Government of India and delay on this account would simply add difficulties both for the prospective tax payers and the administrator.
SCC in its memorandum had drawn attention of the Hon’ble Finance Minister to the difficulties that would be faced in compliance of Direct taxes in the State of Sikkim, if made applicable retrospectively from 1.4.2007.
The Chamber drew the attention of the Hon’ble Finance Minister to his speech made in Lok Sabha on 29th April 2008 wherein he had promised that:
“This( Income Tax Act 1961) will apply only prospectively”
The Sikkim Income Tax Manual 1948 ceased to operate only on 16th June 2008 and also in light of assurance of the Finance Minister in the Parliament for prospective implementation, the order for assessing the non- Sikkimese individuals from the accounting year 2007-08 is not just and has created much anguish and confusion leading to a state of helplessness to co-operate in such unpractical situation
Quoting the White Paper on Implementation of Direct Taxes in Sikkim, the SCC had submitted that in the course of discussions with Government of India on the implementation of direct tax laws in Sikkim, the State Government had rightfully requested as under:
“ The State Government would however like to reiterate its request that sufficient time should be given, before the direct tax laws are implemented, to create an awareness in the State on implementation of the direct tax laws and to educate and mentally prepare the people of the State of the new system of taxation and at the same time allow the State Government to sort out the transitional issues.”
It is regretful that quite inadvertently such an important issue raised and request made thereupon by Government of Sikkim, in larger public interest, was ignored and Instruction No 8/2008 dt 29th July 2008 was issued by CBDT unilaterally.
The general body drawn from all over Sikkim, therefore, resolved to continue with the Gandhian way of movement and unanimously agreed to launch the Second Phase of Protest on 24th and 25th September 2008 by wearing black band on arms and displaying Protest Posters in their premises, demanding from Government of India:
1. Exemption from Income Tax- also for old settlers, government officers and old businessmen of Sikkim.
2. Implementation of direct tax laws on other categories from accounting year 2009-2010.
In the reminder addressed to the Finance Minister the Chamber has held that review of the matter is of utmost importance in view of need to include prospective taxpayers of Sikkim in the National mainstream and this task can only be accomplished by a progressive, systematic and logical approach that may be acceptable to the first timer prospective assesses.
The Chamber has sought to further remind the Hon’ble Finance Minister that the issue of exemption from Indian Income Tax to 400 families of old settlers residing in Sikkim before the merger date i.e., 26th April 1975 who have been inadvertently left out is pending settlement and is under active consideration of both the Union and the State Governments.
The general body also decided to submit memorandums to His Excellency the Governor of Sikkim as well as to Hon’ble Chief Minister and all concerned in Union Government urging them to redress the issue to its logical conclusion.
The meeting thanked Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr Pawan Chamling and Government of Sikkim for their positive approach in the matter which shall go a long way to solve the issue.
( Suresh Agarwal)
General Secretary
Sikkim Chamber of Commerce
Thursday, August 14, 2008
WEALTH TAX IN SIKKIM
Sikkimese individuals not exempted from Wealth Tax: BJP
SE Report
GANGTOK, August 13: The Sikkim State Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has said that the Sikkimese individuals are not exempted from Wealth Tax.
Vandana Ramachandran of the Ministry of Finance, Department of Revenue, Central Board of Direct Taxes, Government of India has said this in a reply when the BJP sought information whether Sikkimese individuals are exempted from Wealth Tax, Gift Tax, Property Tax.
“Wealth Tax is chargeable @ 1% of net wealth exceeding Rs. 15, 00, 000. There is no gift tax liability as gift tax has been abolished. Property tax is not a direct tax since it is a tax levied by local municipal authorities on property,” it was informed.
In a party communiqué, general secretary, CB Chettri has said that any Sikkimese having assets as movable and immovable combined together above Rs 15 lakhs may have to pay wealth tax.
“This is nothing but imposition of tax which Sikkimese had never paid earlier. Let the SDF party and the SDF Government explain the fall out of this to the people of Sikkim,” he said.
Reiterated that the extension of Indian Income tax with exemption to Sikkimese individual is the dilution of the provision of the Article 371 F (k) of the Constitution of India and that there is nothing to celebrate by the SDF party and the SDF Government, the general secretary, Sikkim State maintained that the income tax exemption to Sikkimese individual could have been probably given even by amendment of the Sikkim Income Tax Manual.
“It was rumored there was some secrete understanding reached before extending the Indian Income Tax with exemption to Sikkimese individual. One of the understandings might be the extension of the Wealth tax,” the release added.
SE Report
GANGTOK, August 13: The Sikkim State Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has said that the Sikkimese individuals are not exempted from Wealth Tax.
Vandana Ramachandran of the Ministry of Finance, Department of Revenue, Central Board of Direct Taxes, Government of India has said this in a reply when the BJP sought information whether Sikkimese individuals are exempted from Wealth Tax, Gift Tax, Property Tax.
“Wealth Tax is chargeable @ 1% of net wealth exceeding Rs. 15, 00, 000. There is no gift tax liability as gift tax has been abolished. Property tax is not a direct tax since it is a tax levied by local municipal authorities on property,” it was informed.
In a party communiqué, general secretary, CB Chettri has said that any Sikkimese having assets as movable and immovable combined together above Rs 15 lakhs may have to pay wealth tax.
“This is nothing but imposition of tax which Sikkimese had never paid earlier. Let the SDF party and the SDF Government explain the fall out of this to the people of Sikkim,” he said.
Reiterated that the extension of Indian Income tax with exemption to Sikkimese individual is the dilution of the provision of the Article 371 F (k) of the Constitution of India and that there is nothing to celebrate by the SDF party and the SDF Government, the general secretary, Sikkim State maintained that the income tax exemption to Sikkimese individual could have been probably given even by amendment of the Sikkim Income Tax Manual.
“It was rumored there was some secrete understanding reached before extending the Indian Income Tax with exemption to Sikkimese individual. One of the understandings might be the extension of the Wealth tax,” the release added.
Monday, August 11, 2008
BIOGRAPHIES OF 105 PROMINENT FIGURES OF SIKKIM
Biographies of 105 prominent figures of Sikkim to be released on Aug 17
SE Report
GANGTOK, August 10: ‘Sikkim Ka Pramukh Diwangat Sharshta ani Drastha haru’, a compilation of the biographies of the 105 legendary figures of Sikkim will be released on August 17 at the Sikkim Government College auditorium here in the Capital.
Penned by TB Chandra Subba, who was recently conferred with the Bhanu Puraskar for this year, the book contains memoirs and works of all the well-known figures of Sikkim in the field of politics, literature, journalism, art, economics, culture, sports, commerce, music and many more.
The book is published by Kinar Publications.
According to a press release, the book release function will be attended by eminent literary figures like Dr Ghanashyam Nepal, Professor, North Bengal University, Dr Mohan P Dahal, Prof Krishna Raj Ghatani, Jeewan Namdung, Dr Jas Yonjan Pyasi, Krishna Chandra Singh Moktan, Laxmi Meenu from Mizoram and others.
The occasion will also witness felicitation to several literary figures along with the cultural programme, the release further informs.
SE Report
GANGTOK, August 10: ‘Sikkim Ka Pramukh Diwangat Sharshta ani Drastha haru’, a compilation of the biographies of the 105 legendary figures of Sikkim will be released on August 17 at the Sikkim Government College auditorium here in the Capital.
Penned by TB Chandra Subba, who was recently conferred with the Bhanu Puraskar for this year, the book contains memoirs and works of all the well-known figures of Sikkim in the field of politics, literature, journalism, art, economics, culture, sports, commerce, music and many more.
The book is published by Kinar Publications.
According to a press release, the book release function will be attended by eminent literary figures like Dr Ghanashyam Nepal, Professor, North Bengal University, Dr Mohan P Dahal, Prof Krishna Raj Ghatani, Jeewan Namdung, Dr Jas Yonjan Pyasi, Krishna Chandra Singh Moktan, Laxmi Meenu from Mizoram and others.
The occasion will also witness felicitation to several literary figures along with the cultural programme, the release further informs.
Monday, August 4, 2008
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT- INCOME TAX
INSTRUCTION NO 8/2008, Dated: July 29, 2008ORDER UNDER SECTION 119(2)(a) OF THE INCOME TAX ACT, 1961Vide Finance Act, 2008, a new clause (26AAA) has been inserted in section 10 of the Income Tax Act, 1961 ('Act') with retrospective effect from assessment year 1990-91. Under the said clause, the following income accruing or arising to a Sikkimese individual is exempt from tax-(a) income from any source in the State of Sikkim; or(b) income by way of dividend or interest on securities.For the purposes of the clause, "Sikkimese" has been defined in the Explanation thereto. 2.Income accruing or arising to a non-Sikkimese individual residing in the State of Sikkim continues to be liable to tax under the Act. In the case of such individuals, it has been decided that-(a) For assessment year 2007-08 or any preceding assessment year, no assessment or reassessment shall be made with regard to the income-(i) income from any source in the State of Sikkim; or(ii) income by way of dividend or interest on securities.(b) In case any proceedings have been initiated for assessment year 2007-08 or any preceding assessment year for not filing the return of income, such proceedings shall be dropped.(c) In case any assessment or reassessment proceeding has been initiated for assessment year 2007-08 or any preceding assessment year and assessment orders have not been passed, the aforesaid income shall be accepted as per the return.(d) For the assessment year 2008-09 and subsequent assessment years, assessment or re-assessment, if required, shall be made in accordance with the provisions of the Income Tax Act, 1961. 3. These instructions shall apply only to non-Sikkimese individuals residing in the State of Sikkim.F.No.153/19/2007-TPL(Vandana Ramachandran) Under Secretary to the Govt. of India
Sunday, August 3, 2008
DATA FORM
DATA FORM
(To be filled in Block letters only by those who have attained 18 years of age as on 01-01-2008)
CENTRE CODE: SL.NO:
MASTER SRL.NO:
NAME OF APPLICANT:
DATE OF BIRTH:
AGE:
SEX: MALE / FEMALE
MARITAL STATUS: MARRIED / UNMARRIED.
NUMBER OF ISSUES: SON: DAUGHTER:
VOTER CARD NO:
WARD WHERE VOTED LAST:
OCCUPATION: TRADER / CONTRACTOR / PROFFESSIONAL / SERVICE - GOVT./PRIVATE / RETIRED.
QUALIFICATION:
Attach at least one certificate
CONTACT INFO.: LANDLINE: MOBILE: E.MAIL:
NAME OF FATHER / HUSBAND:
NAME OF GRAND FATHER OF SELF/HUSBAND:
NAME OF GREAT GRAND FATHER OF SELF/HUSBAND:
NAME OF EARLIEST FIRM:
YEAR OF ESTABLISHMENT:
NAME OF PREVIOUS EMPLOYER (IF ANY):
NAME/ADDRESS OF THE CURRENT FIRM OR EMPLOYER:
LAND MARK:
PRESENT RESIDENTIAL ADDRESS:
LANDMARK:
YEAR OF ESTABLISHMENT OF CURRENT FIRM:
NAME OF FAMILY MEMBER WHO CAME EARLIEST:
YOUR RELATION WITH SUCH PERSON:
YEAR :
EARLIEST DOCUMENT AVAILABLE:
DOCUMENTS ENCLOSED:
Verification:
I ………………………………………………………………………...…
s/o-d/o-w/o:………………………………………………………………………..
do hereby declare that whatever stated above is true to the best of my
knowledge and belief and nothing is false or misrepresented.
PLACE:
DATED:
SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT
Please Turn Over.
Brief History of your family in Sikkim:
Your contribution to the State of Sikkim in the field of :
Education:
Art and Culture:
Spiritual and Religion:
literature:
Philantrophic:
Charity and sponser:
Social Projects:
Publications:
Sports and Games:
Politics:
Others:
Name/s of Associations and N.GO.'s with whom associated and for how many years.
a
b
c
Any Awards / Appreciation received from Panchayat / Local Bodies / Government / N.G.O's /
national or international:
a.
b.
c.
Any other matter you want to specify:
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR OFFICE USE ONLY.
DATE OF RECIEPT:
ENTERED IN THE REGISTER VIDE SERIAL NO:
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(To be filled in Block letters only by those who have attained 18 years of age as on 01-01-2008)
CENTRE CODE: SL.NO:
MASTER SRL.NO:
NAME OF APPLICANT:
DATE OF BIRTH:
AGE:
SEX: MALE / FEMALE
MARITAL STATUS: MARRIED / UNMARRIED.
NUMBER OF ISSUES: SON: DAUGHTER:
VOTER CARD NO:
WARD WHERE VOTED LAST:
OCCUPATION: TRADER / CONTRACTOR / PROFFESSIONAL / SERVICE - GOVT./PRIVATE / RETIRED.
QUALIFICATION:
Attach at least one certificate
CONTACT INFO.: LANDLINE: MOBILE: E.MAIL:
NAME OF FATHER / HUSBAND:
NAME OF GRAND FATHER OF SELF/HUSBAND:
NAME OF GREAT GRAND FATHER OF SELF/HUSBAND:
NAME OF EARLIEST FIRM:
YEAR OF ESTABLISHMENT:
NAME OF PREVIOUS EMPLOYER (IF ANY):
NAME/ADDRESS OF THE CURRENT FIRM OR EMPLOYER:
LAND MARK:
PRESENT RESIDENTIAL ADDRESS:
LANDMARK:
YEAR OF ESTABLISHMENT OF CURRENT FIRM:
NAME OF FAMILY MEMBER WHO CAME EARLIEST:
YOUR RELATION WITH SUCH PERSON:
YEAR :
EARLIEST DOCUMENT AVAILABLE:
DOCUMENTS ENCLOSED:
Verification:
I ………………………………………………………………………...…
s/o-d/o-w/o:………………………………………………………………………..
do hereby declare that whatever stated above is true to the best of my
knowledge and belief and nothing is false or misrepresented.
PLACE:
DATED:
SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT
Please Turn Over.
Brief History of your family in Sikkim:
Your contribution to the State of Sikkim in the field of :
Education:
Art and Culture:
Spiritual and Religion:
literature:
Philantrophic:
Charity and sponser:
Social Projects:
Publications:
Sports and Games:
Politics:
Others:
Name/s of Associations and N.GO.'s with whom associated and for how many years.
a
b
c
Any Awards / Appreciation received from Panchayat / Local Bodies / Government / N.G.O's /
national or international:
a.
b.
c.
Any other matter you want to specify:
SIGNATURE OF THE APPLICANT.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR OFFICE USE ONLY.
DATE OF RECIEPT:
ENTERED IN THE REGISTER VIDE SERIAL NO:
SIGNATURE OF THE RECIEVER
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday, August 2, 2008
BAZAR OF SIKKIM
UD&HD : LIST OF MARKETS AS ON 31ST MARCH, 2002.
EAST:
Bazar Class - I
Gangtok, Singtam.
Bazar Class - II
Rangpo, Ranipool, Pakyong, Rhenock, Tadong, Rongli.
Bazar Class - III
Dikchu (E), Makha, Sang, Rorathang.
Rural marketing Centres:
Phadamchen, Kupup, Sherathang, Chandmari, Rongyek, Burtuk
Bhojoghari, Samdong, Ranka, Central Pendam, Martam, Saramsa.
Simik - Linzey, Tintek, Lingdong, Chandey Kyangasla, Theguk,
Lingtuk, Jaluk, Sisney, Barapathing, Mamring, Machong, Chalisey
(Rhenock), Reshi (E), East Pendam, Kopchey, Dalapchand, Aritar,
Chujachen, Rolep, Parakha, Penlong, Lingdok, Lingtam, Rumtek,
Middle Camp, Lower Samdong, Duga, Tsongu, Sirwani, Syari,
Tathangchen.
NORTH
Bazar Class - II
Mangan, Chungthang, Dikchu (N), Phensong, Phodong.
Rural Marketing Centres:
Pakyong, Kabi, Namok, Ramthang, Singhik, Pakshep, Manuel,
Naga, Sangkalang, Hee-Gyathang, Pashingdang, Phodong, Tumlong,
Phamtam, Bakcha, Lachen, Lachung, Lingzya, Tingbong.
SOUTH
Bazar Class - II
Jorethang, Namchi, Melli, Ravongla.
Bazar Class - III
Simchuthang (Mangley), Majhitar, Temi Bazar, Damthang, Namthang
Kewzing, Yangyang, Ralang.
Rural Marketing Centre:
Nandugoan, Tenzor, Maniram Bhanjyang, Phughajyang, Rateypaney,
Tokal Bermoik, "O" Tarku, Ben Bazar, Sadam, Melli Dara, Payong,
Sukrabarey (Sadam), Sumbuk, Turuk, Kitam, Wok, Lingmoo, Lingi-
Payong, Namphok, Manpur, Gumpa Ghurpisey.
WEST
Bazar Class - II
Gyalshing
Bazar Class - III
Leghsip, Reshi, Hee, Sombaria, Soreng, Daramdin, Dentam,
Rinchenpong, Kaluk, Mangalbarey, Shreebadam, Barmiok,
Pelling, Tashiding, Chakung, Nayabazar.
Rural Marketing Centre:
Darap, Rimbi, Gerethang, Melli-Khechepery, Sakyong, Chongrang,
Lingchom, Tashiding, Cheyabhanjyang, Timburbong, Dodak, Zoom
Ribdi, Okhrey, Bhareng Hilley, Budang, Tharpu, Pureytar, Thingling,
Begha, Rothak, Yuksom, Uttarey.
EAST:
Bazar Class - I
Gangtok, Singtam.
Bazar Class - II
Rangpo, Ranipool, Pakyong, Rhenock, Tadong, Rongli.
Bazar Class - III
Dikchu (E), Makha, Sang, Rorathang.
Rural marketing Centres:
Phadamchen, Kupup, Sherathang, Chandmari, Rongyek, Burtuk
Bhojoghari, Samdong, Ranka, Central Pendam, Martam, Saramsa.
Simik - Linzey, Tintek, Lingdong, Chandey Kyangasla, Theguk,
Lingtuk, Jaluk, Sisney, Barapathing, Mamring, Machong, Chalisey
(Rhenock), Reshi (E), East Pendam, Kopchey, Dalapchand, Aritar,
Chujachen, Rolep, Parakha, Penlong, Lingdok, Lingtam, Rumtek,
Middle Camp, Lower Samdong, Duga, Tsongu, Sirwani, Syari,
Tathangchen.
NORTH
Bazar Class - II
Mangan, Chungthang, Dikchu (N), Phensong, Phodong.
Rural Marketing Centres:
Pakyong, Kabi, Namok, Ramthang, Singhik, Pakshep, Manuel,
Naga, Sangkalang, Hee-Gyathang, Pashingdang, Phodong, Tumlong,
Phamtam, Bakcha, Lachen, Lachung, Lingzya, Tingbong.
SOUTH
Bazar Class - II
Jorethang, Namchi, Melli, Ravongla.
Bazar Class - III
Simchuthang (Mangley), Majhitar, Temi Bazar, Damthang, Namthang
Kewzing, Yangyang, Ralang.
Rural Marketing Centre:
Nandugoan, Tenzor, Maniram Bhanjyang, Phughajyang, Rateypaney,
Tokal Bermoik, "O" Tarku, Ben Bazar, Sadam, Melli Dara, Payong,
Sukrabarey (Sadam), Sumbuk, Turuk, Kitam, Wok, Lingmoo, Lingi-
Payong, Namphok, Manpur, Gumpa Ghurpisey.
WEST
Bazar Class - II
Gyalshing
Bazar Class - III
Leghsip, Reshi, Hee, Sombaria, Soreng, Daramdin, Dentam,
Rinchenpong, Kaluk, Mangalbarey, Shreebadam, Barmiok,
Pelling, Tashiding, Chakung, Nayabazar.
Rural Marketing Centre:
Darap, Rimbi, Gerethang, Melli-Khechepery, Sakyong, Chongrang,
Lingchom, Tashiding, Cheyabhanjyang, Timburbong, Dodak, Zoom
Ribdi, Okhrey, Bhareng Hilley, Budang, Tharpu, Pureytar, Thingling,
Begha, Rothak, Yuksom, Uttarey.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
इन्कोमे टैक्स ऑफिस इन सिक्किम
Income Tax office to be set up by Aug 6
Gangtok | Thursday, Jul 24 2008 IST
Marking the beginning of an era of Direct Taxes in Sikkim 33 years after the erstwhile Himalayan kingdom joined the Indian Union, the Central Income Tax office will be set up in the state by August 6.
''The Income Tax office will be set up by August 6 in Sikkim,'' said Finance Secretary T T Dorjee during a workshop on Direct Taxes held here today.
The workshop had been organised by the state government to enable its officials grasp the provisions of Income Tax Act 1961 that was implemented in the state following an amendment in the Act during the Finance Bill presented by Union Finance Ministry P Chidambaram earlier this year.
People of Sikkimese origin having Sikkim subjects or Certificate of Identification have been exempted from Direct Taxes as per the 26AA clause paving way for the Act to be enforced in the state.
The Act had been extended in the state but had not been enforced due to stiff opposition from the locals and the state government.
Following the exemption to Sikkimese people, the state government withdrew its own Income Tax provisions of Sikkim Income Tax Manuel Act of 1948.
Todays workshop was conducted by a chartered accounting firm based in West Bengal to clear doubts about the Central Act among the local administration.
''It will not be difficult to apply this Act. Its just a matter of time to get used to it,'' said the Finance Secretary. Now, taxes will be deducted from non-Sikkimese people residing in the state as per the Central Act.
This has triggered resentment among the local business community which do not have the Sikkim subjects or Certificate of Identifications though they had been living in the state for generations.
Around 400 families of the old business community will be affected by this Act and they have pinned their final hopes on Chief Minister Pawan Chamling.
Under the banner of 'Old Businessmen of Sikkim', the community has approached the Chief Minister to recommend their case to the Union government to include old business community of Sikkim for exemption of Central Income Tax.
''We requested the Chief Minister to give strength to this cause by bringing a suitable resolution in the coming session of Sikkim Assembly,'' said S K Sarda, convener of the body.
The Assembly session is scheduled on July 28.
Though the old business community asserted that they dont mind paying taxes to the Central government, it said the present exemption for only Sikkim subject holders or those having Certificate of Identification is discriminatory to those residing in the state for generations.
The community has demanded they be covered for exemption under the Ladakh model where people living in Ladakh are exempted from paying direct taxes as per clause 26AA of the Income Tax Act.
-- (UNI) -- 24CA39.xml
Gangtok | Thursday, Jul 24 2008 IST
Marking the beginning of an era of Direct Taxes in Sikkim 33 years after the erstwhile Himalayan kingdom joined the Indian Union, the Central Income Tax office will be set up in the state by August 6.
''The Income Tax office will be set up by August 6 in Sikkim,'' said Finance Secretary T T Dorjee during a workshop on Direct Taxes held here today.
The workshop had been organised by the state government to enable its officials grasp the provisions of Income Tax Act 1961 that was implemented in the state following an amendment in the Act during the Finance Bill presented by Union Finance Ministry P Chidambaram earlier this year.
People of Sikkimese origin having Sikkim subjects or Certificate of Identification have been exempted from Direct Taxes as per the 26AA clause paving way for the Act to be enforced in the state.
The Act had been extended in the state but had not been enforced due to stiff opposition from the locals and the state government.
Following the exemption to Sikkimese people, the state government withdrew its own Income Tax provisions of Sikkim Income Tax Manuel Act of 1948.
Todays workshop was conducted by a chartered accounting firm based in West Bengal to clear doubts about the Central Act among the local administration.
''It will not be difficult to apply this Act. Its just a matter of time to get used to it,'' said the Finance Secretary. Now, taxes will be deducted from non-Sikkimese people residing in the state as per the Central Act.
This has triggered resentment among the local business community which do not have the Sikkim subjects or Certificate of Identifications though they had been living in the state for generations.
Around 400 families of the old business community will be affected by this Act and they have pinned their final hopes on Chief Minister Pawan Chamling.
Under the banner of 'Old Businessmen of Sikkim', the community has approached the Chief Minister to recommend their case to the Union government to include old business community of Sikkim for exemption of Central Income Tax.
''We requested the Chief Minister to give strength to this cause by bringing a suitable resolution in the coming session of Sikkim Assembly,'' said S K Sarda, convener of the body.
The Assembly session is scheduled on July 28.
Though the old business community asserted that they dont mind paying taxes to the Central government, it said the present exemption for only Sikkim subject holders or those having Certificate of Identification is discriminatory to those residing in the state for generations.
The community has demanded they be covered for exemption under the Ladakh model where people living in Ladakh are exempted from paying direct taxes as per clause 26AA of the Income Tax Act.
-- (UNI) -- 24CA39.xml
हिस्ट्री ऑफ़ ओल्ड बुसिएस्स्में ऑफ़ सिक्किम
MEETING OF OLD BUSINESSMEN OF SIKKIM AT GANGTOK
Representatives from all over Sikkim will participate in a meeting to be held on 2nd August 2008 at Gangtok to discuss plans for:
PREPARATION OF A HISTORY OF OLD BUSINESSMEN OF SIKKIM
Representatives from all over Sikkim will participate in a meeting to be held on 2nd August 2008 at Gangtok to discuss plans for:
PREPARATION OF A HISTORY OF OLD BUSINESSMEN OF SIKKIM
CM assures the business community -He will request Centre for Income Tax exemption
Staff Reporter
GANGTOK, July 29: The Chief Minister Pawan Chamling said that the people of Sikkim should be aware of the “viruses” eating democracy that do not want to see the State prosper.
He said this while proposing the vote of thanks at the end of the two-day long summer session of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly here today.
Reacting to the walk out staged by the Sangha MLA in protest after being denied the permission to discuss the Burman Report by the Speaker, the Chief Minister said that Acharya Lama had not understood Burman Committee report. “He has also failed to understand that the Burman Report is in favour of all the communities in Sikkim,”
Mr. Chamling said adding that people should not make the mistake of mixing Burman Committee Report with Limboo Tamang seat reservation issue, as both of them are entirely two different issues.
Stating that the Report will bring suitable solution for the seat reservation, the CM said that it has been widely accepted by the people of Sikkim.
“We have tabled the white paper on Limboo Tamang seat reservation as well as on Income Tax exemption because we want to maintain total transparency, Mr. Chamling added
The CM also said that all the amendment bills introduced during the summer session are for the benefit of all the people of the State.
At the same time, the Chief Minister assured that his government would submit a memorandum to the Central Government requesting them to follow the Ladakh model to exempt Central Direct taxes for all the old business communities and employees residing in Sikkim for decades.
“If the then Chief Minister, NB Bhandari had pursued both the issue of seat reservation and IT exemption, the people would be enjoying both the rights today but he failed to do so,” Mr Chamling added.
Source: Sikkim Express 30 July 2008
Staff Reporter
GANGTOK, July 29: The Chief Minister Pawan Chamling said that the people of Sikkim should be aware of the “viruses” eating democracy that do not want to see the State prosper.
He said this while proposing the vote of thanks at the end of the two-day long summer session of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly here today.
Reacting to the walk out staged by the Sangha MLA in protest after being denied the permission to discuss the Burman Report by the Speaker, the Chief Minister said that Acharya Lama had not understood Burman Committee report. “He has also failed to understand that the Burman Report is in favour of all the communities in Sikkim,”
Mr. Chamling said adding that people should not make the mistake of mixing Burman Committee Report with Limboo Tamang seat reservation issue, as both of them are entirely two different issues.
Stating that the Report will bring suitable solution for the seat reservation, the CM said that it has been widely accepted by the people of Sikkim.
“We have tabled the white paper on Limboo Tamang seat reservation as well as on Income Tax exemption because we want to maintain total transparency, Mr. Chamling added
The CM also said that all the amendment bills introduced during the summer session are for the benefit of all the people of the State.
At the same time, the Chief Minister assured that his government would submit a memorandum to the Central Government requesting them to follow the Ladakh model to exempt Central Direct taxes for all the old business communities and employees residing in Sikkim for decades.
“If the then Chief Minister, NB Bhandari had pursued both the issue of seat reservation and IT exemption, the people would be enjoying both the rights today but he failed to do so,” Mr Chamling added.
Source: Sikkim Express 30 July 2008
Monday, July 28, 2008
Press Release dt 8th June 2008
PRESS RELEASE Dt 8th June 2008
The Association of Old businessmen of Sikkim submitted a memorandum to the office of the Hon’ble Chief Minister on 6th June 2008, urging him to kindly recommend their case to the Union Government to include old businessmen of Sikkim for exemption from Central Income tax.
The Association congratulates the Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr Pawan Chamling for having so effectively met the aspirations of the Sikkimese people in achieving to get the long pending demand of exemption from Central Income Tax to Sikkim Subject Holders, fulfilled.
Earlier on 10th April 2008, a delegation of old businessmen had called on Hon’ble Chief Minister at his official residence at Mintokgang and drawn his kind attention to the request of the old businessmen for not letting them be isolated from their Sikkimese brethren with whom they have lived harmoniously for generations, in the matter of Central Income Tax.
The Hon’ble Chief Minister has time and again appreciated and acknowledged the old businessmen of Sikkim as the pillars of economic development and assured them equal treatment with all Sikkimese people .
The Association is grateful to Hon’ble Chief Minister for his assurance on State Day the 16th May 2008 at Chintan Bhawan wherein he deliberated upon the necessity of providing equal treatment to old businessmen by way of declaration of a cut off year and by requesting the Union Government to include them also in the exemption from Central Income Tax .
The Association of old businessmen of Sikkim humbly request the Hon’ble Chief Minister to give strength to their cause by bringing a suitable resolution to this effect in the current session of Sikkim Legislative Assembly..
( S.K.Sarda)
Convenor
Association of Old Businessmen of Sikkim.
The Association of Old businessmen of Sikkim submitted a memorandum to the office of the Hon’ble Chief Minister on 6th June 2008, urging him to kindly recommend their case to the Union Government to include old businessmen of Sikkim for exemption from Central Income tax.
The Association congratulates the Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr Pawan Chamling for having so effectively met the aspirations of the Sikkimese people in achieving to get the long pending demand of exemption from Central Income Tax to Sikkim Subject Holders, fulfilled.
Earlier on 10th April 2008, a delegation of old businessmen had called on Hon’ble Chief Minister at his official residence at Mintokgang and drawn his kind attention to the request of the old businessmen for not letting them be isolated from their Sikkimese brethren with whom they have lived harmoniously for generations, in the matter of Central Income Tax.
The Hon’ble Chief Minister has time and again appreciated and acknowledged the old businessmen of Sikkim as the pillars of economic development and assured them equal treatment with all Sikkimese people .
The Association is grateful to Hon’ble Chief Minister for his assurance on State Day the 16th May 2008 at Chintan Bhawan wherein he deliberated upon the necessity of providing equal treatment to old businessmen by way of declaration of a cut off year and by requesting the Union Government to include them also in the exemption from Central Income Tax .
The Association of old businessmen of Sikkim humbly request the Hon’ble Chief Minister to give strength to their cause by bringing a suitable resolution to this effect in the current session of Sikkim Legislative Assembly..
( S.K.Sarda)
Convenor
Association of Old Businessmen of Sikkim.
Press Release dt 11th June 2008
Dt; 11TH June 2008
PRESS RELEASE DT 11TH JUNE 2008
The Association of Old businessmen of Sikkim is grateful to Hon’ble Chief Minister
Dr Pawan Chamling for having assured the old business community of Sikkim that he will now take up the matter of seeking Income tax exemption for the old established business people of Sikkim, in the recently concluded Sikkim Legislative Assembly session on 10th June 2008.
It is a matter of great satisfaction for us that recognizing the contribution of the old business community of Sikkim, Dr Pawan Chamling has further assured that he is pursuing options available for the needful including the Ladakh Model to meet the aspirations of this deserving lot.
We are deeply touched by the Hon’ble Chief Minister’s heartfelt realization that not many from the old business community could avail the opportunity of being registered as Sikkim Subjects in 1961 due to lack of understanding, ignorance or under constraint of various political or social issues and they need to be protected and taken care of , keeping a large heart.
The Association appreciates the concern and generosity of Hon’ble Chief Minister while presenting the Sikkim Promotion of Local Employment Bill 2008 and providing 20% reservation therein to the wards of the business community residing in the State.
The Association of Old Businessmen of Sikkim joins one and all at this hour of jubilation, our great visionary leader having achieved to get exemption from Direct taxes for our Sikkim Subject brethren.
S.K.Sarda
Convener
Association of Old businessmen of Sikkim
Gangtok,Sikkim.
PRESS RELEASE DT 11TH JUNE 2008
The Association of Old businessmen of Sikkim is grateful to Hon’ble Chief Minister
Dr Pawan Chamling for having assured the old business community of Sikkim that he will now take up the matter of seeking Income tax exemption for the old established business people of Sikkim, in the recently concluded Sikkim Legislative Assembly session on 10th June 2008.
It is a matter of great satisfaction for us that recognizing the contribution of the old business community of Sikkim, Dr Pawan Chamling has further assured that he is pursuing options available for the needful including the Ladakh Model to meet the aspirations of this deserving lot.
We are deeply touched by the Hon’ble Chief Minister’s heartfelt realization that not many from the old business community could avail the opportunity of being registered as Sikkim Subjects in 1961 due to lack of understanding, ignorance or under constraint of various political or social issues and they need to be protected and taken care of , keeping a large heart.
The Association appreciates the concern and generosity of Hon’ble Chief Minister while presenting the Sikkim Promotion of Local Employment Bill 2008 and providing 20% reservation therein to the wards of the business community residing in the State.
The Association of Old Businessmen of Sikkim joins one and all at this hour of jubilation, our great visionary leader having achieved to get exemption from Direct taxes for our Sikkim Subject brethren.
S.K.Sarda
Convener
Association of Old businessmen of Sikkim
Gangtok,Sikkim.
Press Release dt 26nd July 2008
Press Release dt 26 July 2008
CLARIFICATION:
The Old businessmen of Sikkim vide their Press Release dt 22 July 2008 (given to Press on 24 July 2008) referred to its memorandum submitted to Hon’ble Chief Minister wherein it congratulated Dr Pawan Chamling our Chief Minister for having so effectively met the aspirations of the Sikkimese people in achieving to get the long pending Demand for exemption from Central Income Tax to Sikkim subject holders, fulfilled.
In fact, we were the first to congratulate our Sikkim Subject brethren for this great achievement.
Our submission is clearly spelt out in our Press releases as under:
“Earlier on 10th April 2008, a delegation of old businessmen had called on Hon’ble Chief Minister at his official residence at Mintokgang and drawn his kind attention to the request of the old businessmen for not letting them be isolated from their Sikkimese brethren with whom they have lived harmoniously for generations, in the matter of Central Income Tax.”
We concluded our Press Release by our statement as under:
“The Association of Old Businessmen of Sikkim joins one and all at this hour of jubilation, our great visionary leader having achieved to get exemption from Direct taxes for our Sikkim Subject brethren.”
It was very unfortunate that the statement was so erroneously reported in the Telegraph dtd: 25th July 2008.
S.K.Sarda
Convener
Association of Old businessmen of Sikkim
Gangtok
CLARIFICATION:
The Old businessmen of Sikkim vide their Press Release dt 22 July 2008 (given to Press on 24 July 2008) referred to its memorandum submitted to Hon’ble Chief Minister wherein it congratulated Dr Pawan Chamling our Chief Minister for having so effectively met the aspirations of the Sikkimese people in achieving to get the long pending Demand for exemption from Central Income Tax to Sikkim subject holders, fulfilled.
In fact, we were the first to congratulate our Sikkim Subject brethren for this great achievement.
Our submission is clearly spelt out in our Press releases as under:
“Earlier on 10th April 2008, a delegation of old businessmen had called on Hon’ble Chief Minister at his official residence at Mintokgang and drawn his kind attention to the request of the old businessmen for not letting them be isolated from their Sikkimese brethren with whom they have lived harmoniously for generations, in the matter of Central Income Tax.”
We concluded our Press Release by our statement as under:
“The Association of Old Businessmen of Sikkim joins one and all at this hour of jubilation, our great visionary leader having achieved to get exemption from Direct taxes for our Sikkim Subject brethren.”
It was very unfortunate that the statement was so erroneously reported in the Telegraph dtd: 25th July 2008.
S.K.Sarda
Convener
Association of Old businessmen of Sikkim
Gangtok
Press Release dt 22nd July 2008
INCOME TAX EXEMPTION IN SIKKIM
Press Release dt 22nd July 2008
The Association of Old businessmen of Sikkim submitted a memorandum to the office of the Hon’ble Chief Minister on 15th July 2008, urging him to kindly recommend their case to the Union Government to include old businessmen of Sikkim for exemption from Central Income tax.
The Association congratulates the Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr Pawan Chamling for having so effectively met the aspirations of the Sikkimese people in achieving to get the long pending demand of exemption from Central Income Tax to Sikkim Subject Holders, fulfilled.
Earlier on 10th April 2008, a delegation of old businessmen had called on Hon’ble Chief Minister at his official residence at Mintokgang and drawn his kind attention to the request of the old businessmen for not letting them be isolated from their Sikkimese brethren with whom they have lived harmoniously for generations, in the matter of Central Income Tax.
The Hon’ble Chief Minister has time and again appreciated and acknowledged the old businessmen of Sikkim as the pillars of economic development and assured them equal treatment with all Sikkimese people .
The Association is grateful to Hon’ble Chief Minister for his assurance on State Day the 16th May 2008 at Chintan Bhawan wherein he deliberated upon the necessity of providing equal treatment to old businessmen by way of declaration of a cut off year and by requesting the Union Government to include them also in the exemption from Central Income Tax .
The Association of Old businessmen of Sikkim is also grateful to Honorable Chief Minister for having assured the old business community of Sikkim that he will now take up the matter of seeking Income tax exemption for the old established business people of Sikkim, in the recently concluded Sikkim Legislative Assembly session on 10th June 2008.
It is a matter of great satisfaction for us that recognizing the contribution of the old business community of Sikkim, The Chief Minister has further assured that his government is pursuing options for the needful including the Ladakh Model to meet the aspirations of this deserving lot.
Again on the occasion of Kranti Diwas, Hon’ble Chief Minister has assured his determination to see that the old businessmen as well as the Men in Service are covered under income tax exemption net.
The Association also appreciates his concern and generosity towards those government servants who could not be covered under Income Tax Exemption category, but being residents of the State, they could also be covered under the Ladakh Model.
The Association of old businessmen of Sikkim humbly request the Hon’ble Chief Minister to give strength to this cause by bringing a suitable resolution to this effect in the ensuing session of Sikkim Legislative Assembly due on 28th July 2008..
The Association of Old Businessmen of Sikkim joins one and all at this hour of jubilation, our great visionary leader having achieved to get exemption from Direct taxes for our Sikkim Subject brethren.
S.K.Sarda
Convener,
Association of Old businessmen of Sikkim, Gangtok
Press Release dt 22nd July 2008
The Association of Old businessmen of Sikkim submitted a memorandum to the office of the Hon’ble Chief Minister on 15th July 2008, urging him to kindly recommend their case to the Union Government to include old businessmen of Sikkim for exemption from Central Income tax.
The Association congratulates the Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr Pawan Chamling for having so effectively met the aspirations of the Sikkimese people in achieving to get the long pending demand of exemption from Central Income Tax to Sikkim Subject Holders, fulfilled.
Earlier on 10th April 2008, a delegation of old businessmen had called on Hon’ble Chief Minister at his official residence at Mintokgang and drawn his kind attention to the request of the old businessmen for not letting them be isolated from their Sikkimese brethren with whom they have lived harmoniously for generations, in the matter of Central Income Tax.
The Hon’ble Chief Minister has time and again appreciated and acknowledged the old businessmen of Sikkim as the pillars of economic development and assured them equal treatment with all Sikkimese people .
The Association is grateful to Hon’ble Chief Minister for his assurance on State Day the 16th May 2008 at Chintan Bhawan wherein he deliberated upon the necessity of providing equal treatment to old businessmen by way of declaration of a cut off year and by requesting the Union Government to include them also in the exemption from Central Income Tax .
The Association of Old businessmen of Sikkim is also grateful to Honorable Chief Minister for having assured the old business community of Sikkim that he will now take up the matter of seeking Income tax exemption for the old established business people of Sikkim, in the recently concluded Sikkim Legislative Assembly session on 10th June 2008.
It is a matter of great satisfaction for us that recognizing the contribution of the old business community of Sikkim, The Chief Minister has further assured that his government is pursuing options for the needful including the Ladakh Model to meet the aspirations of this deserving lot.
Again on the occasion of Kranti Diwas, Hon’ble Chief Minister has assured his determination to see that the old businessmen as well as the Men in Service are covered under income tax exemption net.
The Association also appreciates his concern and generosity towards those government servants who could not be covered under Income Tax Exemption category, but being residents of the State, they could also be covered under the Ladakh Model.
The Association of old businessmen of Sikkim humbly request the Hon’ble Chief Minister to give strength to this cause by bringing a suitable resolution to this effect in the ensuing session of Sikkim Legislative Assembly due on 28th July 2008..
The Association of Old Businessmen of Sikkim joins one and all at this hour of jubilation, our great visionary leader having achieved to get exemption from Direct taxes for our Sikkim Subject brethren.
S.K.Sarda
Convener,
Association of Old businessmen of Sikkim, Gangtok
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