Everything is discussed with BJP: Sukhbir

Amid reported difference between SAD and BJP over imposition of advance tax, Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal today said everything was discussed between the two allies before taking any decision.
"Everything is discussed with our ally partner (BJP) ... they are part of the Cabinet," Badal said when he was asked BJP had opposed imposition of advance tax.
He also claimed that BJP did not oppose to the introduction of advance tax.
Despite oppositions from trading community and manufacturers, SAD-BJP led state government last month introduced advance tax in lieu of entry tax on certain goods and items. Following pressure from trade and industry, BJP reportedly expressed reservation on levying of advance tax.

The state government hoped to raise Rs 400 crore from advance tax and it was to be used for payment of VAT refund to the state dealers.
Meanwhile, Punjab BJP Chief Kamal Sharma today asked the state Excise and Taxation department to "take care of state traders", saying that they were the backbone of Punjab's economy.

Addressing on the occasion of launch of traders' policy here, Sharma said the state industry and trading community had been contributing immensely to the state's economy despite facing tough times and challenges posed by various factors.
"Industry continues to stay here in the state. In spite of tax concession offered by neighbouring states, state industry continues to compete and existing units are contributing a lot to the state's economic development and its growth," Sharma said in a function where the Punjab Deputy Chief Minister was also present.

"The (Excise and taxation) department should take care of traders...They are the backbone of the state economy. It is my opinion that the department should deal with traders sympathetically in future," he said in his speech.
Traders and businessmen are considered a major vote bank for BJP in the state.