Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan has announced a major overhaul of the State’s tax system. He said the government will restructure the tax system and launch a statewide drive to stop tax evasion.
Speaking about the government’s plans, Mr. Satheesan said Kerala will take strict action against traders and businesses that avoid paying taxes. He added that the government will no longer allow people to sell goods without following tax rules.
The Chief Minister said the government will fully support individuals and businesses that pay taxes honestly. However, he made it clear that those who evade taxes should not expect any support from the government. Instead, the State will identify tax evaders and take action against them through a special tax enforcement drive.
“We will not tolerate tax evasion. Honest taxpayers should not suffer because of those who break the rules,” he said.
Mr. Satheesan also clarified that the SEST Housing Scheme is not meant to replace or weaken the LIFE Mission. He said both programmes have different objectives and the government remains committed to providing housing support to eligible families.
Responding to criticism over the State Budget, the Chief Minister said the Budget does not include any proposal for privatisation. He accused the previous Left government of initiating the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) process in the mineral sector.
According to Mr. Satheesan, the KMML Board approved the proposal during the previous government’s tenure on February 25, 2026. He questioned why the current government was facing criticism for a decision taken earlier.
The Chief Minister also rejected allegations that the proposed mineral corridor amounts to privatisation. He assured the public that the government would never take any decision that goes against Kerala’s interests.
Mr. Satheesan said the government will begin implementing the major announcements made in the Budget within the next three months. He also appealed to the Opposition not to spread misinformation about the government’s policies.