Hyderabad: The Telangana government has warned of stringent action against tax evaders in the state.

“We are trying to check zero business tax evasion, increase tax net,  set up new checkposts besides improving intelligence network to  identify tax evaders. We will come out with a toll free number in two days to receive complaints,” T. Srinivas Yadav, minister for commercial taxes said.

Mr Srinivas Yadav held a meeting with senior officials of commercial taxes department in this regard and asked them to initiate steps to mop up resources and check tax evasion. The government has decided to set up two modern integrated checkposts at a cost of Rs 80 crore at Saloor in Nizamabad district and Boraj in Adilabad district soon.

“Our efforts are bearing fruits. The tax base is being improved. We are focussing on tax evasion. The department has a big role in making Bangaru Telangana. We request businessmen, traders and others to ensure payment of taxes and increase revenues for the government to provide amenities to people,” he said.

Telangana, he said, will set up border checkposts at  Kodad, Vishnupuram, Tungabhadra, Palvancha, Kallur, and Ashwaraopet. Stating that the government was dealing with firm hand against zero business, he said tax officials seized Rs 10 crore worth commodities illegally stored in 10 godowns in Hayathnagar, Turkayamjal and LB Nagar.

“We are also keeping a tab on gold shops, corporate hospitals, cinema halls to ensure proper audit. We will fill up vacant posts and recognise good officers,” he added.

Taking exception to criticism of TRS government and recent TRS training classes by Telugu Desam leaders, he said Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu spent Rs 1.25 crore public funds on Yoga. He (Naidu) lost hold in his State and targeting Telangana.

Let them tell Naidu of what is going in their State instead of pointing accusing finger at Telangana. Jobless in Telugu Desam are indulging in loose talk, he remarked.