By Bizodisha Bureau, Bhubaneswar, May 24, 2016 : The Odisha government is yet to exempt pulses from Value Added Taxes [VAT] and other local taxes, inviting sharp criticism from Opposition parties and traders’ association.

The Bharaiyta Janata Party general secretary, Prithivraj Harichandan criticized the state government saying that the narendra Modi government had already appeal all state to exempt pulses from VAT and other taxes in a meeting chaired by Union Food minister on May 21, Odisha government has not taken it seriously.

“We demand the State should waive VAT and stabilise the price of pulses at the earliest,”, BJP general secretary said.

Traders, on the other hand, have criticized the delay in formulation of a policy on pulses by the State government. They have threatened to launch an agitation if government fails to exempt tax on dal items by May 26.

“If this six per cent tax is waived, the price of pulses would come down by Rs 8 to 10 per KG. If the government fails to take any action on exemption of tax by May 26, we may take any dire action,” Traders’ Association president Sudhakar Panda warned.

The BJD, however, said the government will take measures only after receiving the Centre’s decision in writing.

“We are yet to receive written communication from the Centre. Appropriate action will be taken on receiving Centre’s reply,” BJD spokesperson Pratap Jena said.