National Conference on “GST litigation in the GSTAT Era,” organised by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, featured an introductory session that brought together valuable perspectives on the GST appellate mechanism and steps towards making the process smoother and more taxpayer-friendly.
The session provided valuable perspectives on the evolving GST appellate mechanism and the journey towards a smoother and more taxpayer-friendly system.
Mr. Sanjeev Kumar Jain, IAS (Retd.), Member Technical GSTAT, Government of India, the Chief Guest, emphasised that as defects arise during the appeal process, taxpayers must ensure all relevant documents are kept ready and accessible. He also emphasised that the Tribunal has a responsibility to hear these concerns and address the issues faced by taxpayers. He acknowledged that the Tribunal is actively working to resolve these issues and make the appellate process smoother and more efficient.
CA Ashok Kumar Batra, Chair, Indirect tax Committee, highlighted that with 77,000 appeals already filed, the focus must now be on faster resolution of pending matters. He emphasised timely hearings, smooth appeal proceedings and favourable decisions by the Tribunal as key steps towards a fair and efficient GST system.
Ms Babeeta Sharma, Director – PHDCCI delivered the welcome address highlighting the crucial role of the newly operationalised GST Appellate Tribunal in resolving taxpayer challenges. Emphasizing PHDCCI’s 121-year legacy of nation-building, she reiterated the Chamber’s commitment to fostering dialogue between industry and tax authorities to drive transparency and support the vision of a Viksit Bharat.
CA Sandeep Garg, Co Chair, Indirect Tax Committee PHDCCI , proposed the formal vote of thanks and reflected on the significant progress in the GST appeal-filing process, noting how the system has moved from earlier technical challenges to 77,000 appeals being filed smoothly today, making the process a reality and easier for taxpayers and professionals. A very insightful beginning to the technical sessions, setting the stage for meaningful discussions on the GST appellate framework and its practical challenges.