Centre's panel to look into jewellers' demands

New Delhi: Amid nation-wide protest by jewellers against the imposition of one per cent excise duty on non-silver jewellery items, the government on Monday set up a committee under former chief economic advisor Ashok Lahri to look into their demands.

The finance ministry said that all associations will be given an opportunity to submit representation before the committee in writing and the all India associations to state their case in person. The panel, which has been asked to submit its report in 60 days, will look into issues related to compliance procedure for the excise duty and other relevant issues.

Till the time recommendations are finalised, the ministry said excise officers will not visit manufacturing units, shops, place of business or residence of the jewellers. While some associations have called off their strike last Saturday, some regional associations are continuing with their agitation.