Question 13 - Can a CGST/SGST officer access business premises under any other circumstances? - FAQ on GST dated 21.9.2016 based on Draft Model GST

Q 13. Can a CGST/SGST officer access business premises under any other circumstances? Ans. Yes. Access can also be obtained in terms of Section 64 of MGL. This provision of law is meant to allow an audit party of CGST/SGST or C AG or a cost accountant or chartered accountant nominated under section 50 of CGST/SGST Act, access to any business premises without issuance of a search warrant for the purposes of carrying out any audit, scrutiny, verification and checks as may be necessary to safeguard the interest of revenue. However, a written authorization is to be issued by an officer of the rank of Additional/Joint Commissioner of CGST or SGST. This provision facilitates access to a business premise which is not registered by a taxable person as a principal or additional place of business but has books of accounts, documents, computers etc. which are required for audit or verification of accounts of a taxable person.