GST confusion in Ponda, but traders say things will be okay

the goan I networkrPONDA rrIn a bid to avoid confusion, the prominent Goa Bagayatdar supermarket in Ponda remained shut on the first day of GST implementation, as it wanted to switch over to the new taxation policy. r“We are into a transition stage and hence we shut business for a day. We have to update all our goods with different taxation system. Trials in execution of bills will be carried out on Sunday and we will be able to resume business by Monday,” ran officer at Goa Bagayatdar told The Goan on condition of anonymity. r“It is not clear if the rates will go up or come down, but there will definitely be transparency in the system. We will know the impact only when purchases are done under the new billing system. So far, the picture is unclear,” the officer said. A hotel manager from Ponda admitted that he was also confused about the GST and added that the execution of bills under the new taxation system was not implemented. Sanjay Naik, a well-known general store owner from Ponda, said there was still confusion in implementation of GST and only new purchases would clear their doubts. r“I welcome the GST if it benefits the masses, but I am still confused about taxation,” he added. rSome jewellers in Ponda said there was a huge rush among buyers on Friday as they wanted to beat rGST implementation on Saturday. r“We have started the new billing system. On Friday, there was a rush, but it reduced today. I feel it is good step and will help everyone,” said Damodar Raikar, a prominent jeweller. Another jeweller said: “I am yet to provide bills with the new taxation as there is still some confusion.”