UPVAT | Computation Of Correct ITC Be Examined By Assessing Authority Not Later Than Stage Of Making Regular Assessment Order: Allahabad High Court
Live LawThe Allahabad High Court has held that computation of correct input tax credit can only be done till the passing of the regular assessment order by the Assessing Authority and not at a later stage. Section 29 of the UPVAT Act empowers the Assessing Authority to initiate reassessment proceedings against an assesee if there is “reason to believe” that whole or part of the turnover has escaped assessment or has been assessed to tax at a lower rate than prescribed or if deductions and exemptions have been wrongly allowed. Even if it were a case of a tax evader, the rule of law would, by its very stature and basic requirement, commend to all quasi-judicial authorities including the assessing authority, to conduct their proceedings in a manner that may be fair and therefore inspire confidence in the noticee, irrespective of a his status - whether an honest tax-payer or a tax evader.” The Court held that ITC is not part of determination of turnover or tax liability but an allowance that arises to certain dealers in the prescribed manner, upon fulfillment of specified circumstances under the Act. The Court held that “the scheme of the Act is - the computation of correct ITC may be examined by the Assessing Authority, not later than the stage of making the regular assessment order i.e.