In a strong message to tax evaders, Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked them to take advantage of the latest government scheme and come clean before September 30.
During his Mann Ki Baat radio address, Modi said the government will not initiate any enquiry against those who voluntarily disclose their assets and income before the deadline.
Addressing the nation through his monthly radio programme
He said the government has created a window of opportunity for all those who have undisclosed income to come clean.
“I appeal to all to take advantage of this good opportunity to be part of this transparent government scheme and consider this the last chance,” he said, adding that the government wants to create an atmosphere of trust with the citizens.
Referring to his recent interaction with income-tax, Customs and excise officials, the Prime Minister said he had told them not to consider the countrymen “thieves” but repose faith in them and “handhold” them to become law-abiding citizens.
Pointing out that only 1.5 lakh people have taxable income of over ₹50 lakh, Modi said, “This cannot be digested by anybody. One can see lakhs of people with taxable income of over ₹50 lakh in big cities.”