Adequate time needs to be given to quell the worries of public and merchants before the implementation of GST. #GSTBill

DMK working president M.K. Stalin appealed to the central government on June 8, 2017, urging authorities to grant sufficient transitional time before implementing the Goods and Services Tax nationwide. Stalin emphasized that rushing the nationwide rollout without adequately addressing the anxieties of small merchants, retail traders, and consumers could trigger severe economic disruptions across Tamil Nadu.

Stalin highlighted that small and medium enterprises form the backbone of the state's commercial landscape. These business operators faced significant confusion over complex tax slabs, digital compliance mandates, and penalty provisions under the proposed regime. He argued that implementing an entirely new indirect taxation structure without extensive awareness programs and user testing would disproportionately burden ordinary traders who lacked automated accounting systems.

The opposition leader called on policy makers to engage directly with merchant associations and commercial chambers to resolve outstanding grievances before enforcement. Stalin stressed that tax reforms should facilitate commerce rather than complicate livelihood activities. The DMK urged both the Union government and the state administration to listen constructively to trade bodies and ensure a smooth, transparent transition that protects small enterprises and consumer welfare.