The Supreme Court settled a 15-year dispute, classifying small-packaged coconut oil as edible oil with a lower 5% GST, unlike the 18% levied on hair oil. This benefits FMCG companies and consumers. The court clarified that coconut oil labelled for hair use, even in small bottles, would be considered hair oil.
Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud hailed the Goods and Services Tax (GST) as a “classical example of cooperative federalism,” emphasizing its role in promoting collaboration between the Centre and states. He noted that Indian federalism is dynamic, evolving to address contemporary challenges like climate change and cybercrime, while ensuring the protection of state rights and constitutional ideals.
![[UPNL Employees Case] Major Defeat to Uttarakhand Govt. as SC Dismissed SLP](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/image-13-1.png?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
The Uttarakhand government faced a legal loss in the Supreme Court over UPNL employees, as the court dismissed its Special Leave Petition, upholding a 2018 High Court ruling for “equal pay for equal work.” This decision impacts around 25,000 UPNL employees, reigniting hopes for fair wages and employment regulation.
The Gujarat High Court expressed concern over the extensive media coverage of journalist Mahesh Langa’s arrest related to GST fraud, emphasizing the importance of equal treatment under the law. The court resolved to remain unaffected by public opinion, underlining that every citizen deserves fairness during legal proceedings, irrespective of their profession.
Today, On 6th September, the Supreme Court dismissed a PIL seeking enforcement of a compliance rating mechanism under the CGST law, stating that such matters are within the purview of legislative decisions. The mechanism assesses businesses’ adherence to tax regulations. The court emphasized that PILs should be reserved for pressing concerns involving public interest and fundamental rights.
The Finance Ministry plans to replace the outdated Central Excise Act with a modern Central Excise Bill in an effort to streamline taxation and business processes. The new bill aims to enhance ease of doing business and eliminate obsolete provisions, with a focus on goods not covered under the Goods and Services Tax. The ministry is seeking feedback on the draft bill until June 26th.
The Supreme Court of India on 15th May, emphasized that arrests in Goods and Services Tax (GST) cases should be founded on credible evidence, not mere suspicion. The court highlighted the need for cautious exercise of arrest powers and stressed that arrests should be supported by substantial material. The bench aims to scrutinize arrest grounds outlined in relevant legislation.
In July, the Supreme Court will address challenges to the 28% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on online gaming companies. Several petitions contest the tax’s validity and its impact on the industry. The court will hear concerns raised by Baazi Networks Private Limited and other online gaming companies and address pending petitions. The tax notices were issued retrospectively, alleging GST evasion of Rs 1.12 lakh crore.
![[Breaking] Supreme Court Strikes Down Haryana's 5-Marks Reservation in Employment Exams](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image-16-1.png?resize=447%2C309&ssl=1)
Today, 19th April,The Supreme Court issued notices in response to a petition challenging anti-profiteering measures in India. The petition questions the validity of these measures and their impact on businesses, particularly in the real estate sector. This signals potential legal scrutiny and reflects ongoing debates on pricing policies and consumer protection laws.
Today (April 5th), CJI DY Chandrachud, Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, granted the Central government’s request to transfer petitions from various High Courts. These petitions challenge notices issued by Goods and Services Tax (GST) authorities to gaming companies for alleged tax evasion and underpayment. A total of 27 petitions from 9-HC’s were transferred to SC.