Introduction: In a significant move, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has issued a notification No. S.O. 446(E) on 02nd February 2024, announcing the establishment of a Central Processing Centre (CPC) at the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs in Manesar. This centre will be pivotal in processing and disposing of all e-forms filed under the Companies Act, 2013.
Implications:
1. Central Processing Centre (CPC) Establishment: A new Central Processing Centre is established at the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs, Manesar, under the powers conferred by section 396(1) and (2) of the Companies Act, 2013.
2. Processing and Disposal of E-Forms: The CPC will be responsible for processing and disposing of all e-forms filed, accompanied by the applicable fee, as outlined in the Companies (Registration of Offices and Fees) Rules, 2014.
3. Jurisdictional Impact: Jurisdictional Registrars, excluding the Registrar of the Central Processing Centre, will retain authority over companies within their jurisdiction for all provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, except for the processing of e-forms, which will now be managed by the Registrar of the Central Processing Centre.
4. Effective Date: The notification is set to come into effect from the 6th of February 2024, signifying a shift in the processing dynamics of e-forms.
5. Note on MCA Centers: The MCA will now operate through four distinct centres for form processing and scrutiny, requiring heightened attention to compliance:
- CRC (Central Registration Centre): For incorporation-related matters.
- CPC (Central Processing Centre): For processing of various e-forms.
- CSC (Central Scrutiny Centre): For the scrutiny of Straight Through Process (STP) forms.
- C-PACE (Centralized Processing for Accelerated Companies Exit): For closure/strike off of companies.
Conclusion: This MCA notification introduces a transformative change in form processing by centralizing it through the newly established Central Processing Centre. Stakeholders and businesses are advised to stay vigilant and adapt to the revised compliance landscape to ensure seamless interactions with the MCA.
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