Uttar Pradesh Motor Transport Association (UPMTA) had called for the against the provisions of the UP Value Added Tax Ordinance, 2007.

The proposed committee will comprise representatives of UPMTA and two members, nominated by the Trade Tax Commission. The committee is expected to file its report within the next two months.

In the VAT ordinance, the transporters have been defined as dealers. Moreover, like traders, they were required to provide records about the goods transported by their firm and also seek registration under VAT.

Transporters argued that except Tripura, West Bengal and Assam, in no other state, transporters have been clubbed with dealers.

“We are merely coolies, as we transport the goods of any party who is willing to pay the tariff according to the prevailing market rate. So, how can we be held responsible if the consigner is involved in tax evasion?” asked Subash Chaabra, vice-president of UPMTA.

Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh Udyog Vyapar Mandal has given the call for a statewide bandh on January 1, against the implementation of VAT.

The traders will stage dharna at all district headquarters.

In Lucknow, they will take out a procession from Aminabad, which will terminate in front of the Vidhan Sabha.