While income tax slabs appear progressive, heavy reliance on GST raises questions about real distributive fairness. The article examines whether India’s tax structure is progressive in effect, not just design.
India’s tax laws reflect progressive principles, but reliance on GST raises fairness concerns. The key issue is whether equity exists in practice, not just in design.
GST’s fully digital compliance system has improved transparency but created challenges in areas with limited digital infrastructure. The piece assesses how portal dependence and amendment fatigue affect small business sustainability.
The ITAT held that Section 43B applies even if interest is capitalised to work-in-progress instead of claimed as revenue expenditure. The Assessing Officer was justified in reducing WIP for unpaid interest to a Scheduled Bank.
The Court quashed GST adjudication orders on excess ITC for violating Sections 75(4) and 75(6) due to absence of reasons and denial of hearing, directing fresh proceedings with proper particulars.
The High Court quashed the adjudication order after finding that the authority failed to consider uncontroverted submissions on valid tax invoices and GSTR filings, directing fresh hearing.
The Bombay High Court permitted videography of statements and allowed an advocate to sit at a visible but not audible distance during a Section 70 CGST inquiry. The relief was granted considering the petitioner’s medical condition and willingness to cooperate.
ITAT Mumbai held that even a small stock discrepancy can attract Section 69A if unexplained. Lack of supporting evidence led to confirmation of addition.
The Tribunal remanded the reassessment after the assessee sought another opportunity to explain the source of investment. The addition was set aside subject to payment of costs and fresh adjudication on merits.
The Supreme Court held that appeals involving tax below the prescribed monetary threshold should not be pursued. The question of limitation in reassessment was left open for future cases.
