Patel stated that though the government had already committed to abolish octroi from the State, a delay in announcing the date for the same had made all concerned `apprehensive about the State's intention'. ``When 18 states have already abolished octroi, they must have some alternative. Moreover, the alternative of surcharge on sales tax has been suggested,'' he pointed out, adding that the announcement be made immediately.

Patel also suggested that traders making purchases of only tax free goods or from registered dealers be exempted from penal provisions of delay in filing of returns.

His other proposals included provision of one single form per trader for the whole year, increase in limit for filing monthly returns and arrangement for acceptance of sales tax dues at Bodeli and Palej.