To check fraud, Centre & Bengal roll out GST Suvidha Kendras

Kolkata: Bengal has become the first state in which Centre and state have come together to roll out biometric-based Aadhaar authentication centres for GST registration. The formal rollout was started on Aug 5. This is aimed at checking GST frauds which are happening through fake GST registration and fake input tax credit (ITC) demand. Central GST authorities feel that going forward, the Bengal model could be replicated in other states.A GST official pointed out that after introduction of the Aadhaar-based detection system, applications for GST registrations had dropped by 23% in Gujarat (which was the first state to set up GST Suvidha Centres). In Bengal, GST Suvidha Kendras have been set up at 32 locations, covering all districts. Of these centres, 12 are operated by central GST authorities while 20 are run by state GST authorities. Commenting on the step, Sharwan Kumar, chief commissioner of CGST, Kolkata zone, said, “This initiative will significantly prevent issue of fake invoicing and availing of inadmissible ITC, thus help create level playing field for tgenuine tax payers.”Since Aug 5, more than 800 registration applications have been received at Suvidha Kendras for biometric verification and as many as 450 verifications have been successfully completed.

What is GST? Know the process of registration, documents required and more details

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) process became entirely online through gst.gov.in. Registration is mandatory for businesses exceeding Rs 20 lakh turnover. Required documents include PAN, Aadhaar, and bank details. Approval generally takes 7-10 days. GST registration helps ensure compliance and smooth operations, preventing legal issues and fines for businesses.

Chhattisgarh state GST joint commissioner suspended for alleged misconduct and bribery

A joint commissioner of Chhattisgarh State GST was suspended for allegedly misbehaving and demanding bribes from a businessman. Deepak Giri, posted in Division No.2, Bilaspur, faced suspension under Rule 9(1) of the Chhattisgarh Civil Service rules. His headquarters will now be the GST office in Nava Raipur Atal Nagar during the suspension period.

7 held In GST Refund Fraud Worth Crores

Delhi's Anti-Corruption Branch uncovered a massive GST fraud involving fraudulent GST refunds of Rs 54 crore. Seven individuals, including a now suspended GST officer and three advocates, were arrested. Nearly 500 non-existent firms were discovered, solely claiming fake GST refunds. Procedural lapses and the misuse of input tax credit led to this significant exchequer loss.

Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, and Mini Crossword.