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Home e-Newsletters Index Year 2013 August Day 7 - Wednesday

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TMI Tax Updates - e-Newsletter
August 7, 2013

Case Laws in this Newsletter:

Income Tax Customs Service Tax Central Excise CST, VAT & Sales Tax



Articles

1. DEEMED INCOME AND TAX ON BUY BACK OF SHARES - ULTRA VIRSE

   By: DEVKUMAR KOTHARI

Summary: The article argues that the tax imposed on companies for buying back their own unlisted shares, as per sections 115QA to 115QC of the Income-tax Act, 1961, is unconstitutional. The author contends that the tax is not on actual income but on deemed income, which contradicts the Constitution of India. The provision, effective from June 1, 2013, requires companies to pay a 20% tax on distributed income from buy-backs, but the author argues this income should not be considered as such in the company's hands. The article suggests this levy could be challenged legally as it exceeds constitutional authority.

2. IN ELIGIBLE CENVAT CREDIT AVAILED BUT NOT UTILISED –LAW TODAY

   By: Jayaprakash Gopinathan

Summary: The article discusses the ongoing controversy surrounding the CENVAT credit system, particularly after the issuance of Notification No. 18/2012 - Central Excise (N.T.) dated 17th March 2012. This notification altered the interpretation of Rule 14 of the Cenvat Credit Rules, 2004, by eliminating the need for interest payment on availed but unutilized irregular credit. The Supreme Court's decision in the Ind-Swift Laboratories case was impacted by this notification, reducing its precedential value. The article argues that modified penal provisions should apply to pending cases, as seen in the case involving Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, and calls for legal corrections.


News

1. Assistance Provided for Setting up of Heavy Industries in States

Summary: The Ministry of Commerce Industry does not assist in setting up heavy industries in states. Assistance is provided only to sick or loss-making central public sector enterprises (CPSEs) under the Department of Heavy Industry for salary payments, statutory dues, and government-approved revival schemes. In Rajasthan, from 2010 to 2013, financial aid was given to Instrumentation Limited, Kota, and Hindustan Salts Limited, Jaipur, for specific purposes such as investment in solar technology and meeting pension liabilities. This information was disclosed by the Minister of State for Commerce Industry in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha.

2. High Level Meeting to Revive Manufacturing Sector

Summary: A High Level Committee on Manufacturing convened on July 9, 2013, to enhance competitiveness in textiles and steel and develop strategies for civilian aircraft, electric and hybrid vehicles, and advanced materials. The committee decided to initiate the development of a 70-100 seater civilian aircraft in India. A High Level Steering Group under the National Manufacturing Competitiveness Council will manage the program's details. This information was shared by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha.

3. Policy Measures for Improving Manufacturing Sector

Summary: The government is implementing various measures to enhance the manufacturing sector, including the National Manufacturing Policy, 2011, and simplified Foreign Direct Investment policies. Projects like the Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor and the e-biz Mission Mode Project are underway. Incentives are provided for industries in challenging areas through transport subsidies and special packages. The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) rose from 170.3 in 2011-12 to 172.2 in 2012-13. Additional initiatives include a project monitoring cell for stalled projects and planning for new industrial corridors. This information was disclosed by a government official in a parliamentary session.

4. Review of Exports Targets

Summary: The Department of Commerce initially aimed to double India's merchandise exports from $246 billion in 2010-11 to $500 billion by 2013-14, leveraging robust export growth and a favorable global economy. However, due to challenges such as weak industrial growth, high credit costs, rupee depreciation, the Eurozone debt crisis, and global economic sluggishness, the export target for 2013-14 was revised to $325 billion. This adjustment was detailed by a government official in a written response to the Rajya Sabha.

5. Impact of FT Zone Agreements

Summary: India has signed 10 Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and 5 Preferential Trade Agreements, with 18 more FTAs under negotiation. The impact of these agreements is evaluated continuously, starting before negotiations. Feasibility studies are conducted internally and through the Joint Study Group to assess potential effects on domestic industries and agriculture. Sensitive or negative lists are maintained to protect these sectors, limiting tariff concessions. In cases of import surges harming local industries, measures like anti-dumping can be implemented. Each FTA includes a Joint Review Mechanism for monitoring. This information was provided by a government official in a parliamentary session.

6. Export of Farm Products to the US

Summary: During 2012-13, India exported various farm products to the US, totaling 579,909.87 metric tons and valued at $3,584.13 million. Key exports included guargum, basmati rice, and processed fruits and vegetables. Basmati rice shipments faced detentions by US Customs due to pesticide residue concerns, which were resolved after testing by the USFDA. The Indian government engaged with the US to address these issues, particularly regarding the import tolerance for Tricyclazole in rice. This information was disclosed by a government official in a written statement to the Rajya Sabha.

7. Steps initiated by Government to ensure food safety compliances for export of agricultural products

Summary: The government has implemented several measures to enhance food safety compliance for agricultural exports, addressing increased RASFF alerts from the EU. These include a residue monitoring plan for grape exports, a web-based traceability system for grapes, and aflatoxin control for peanut exports. Standards for 51 fruits and vegetables have been established under the AGMARK Act. APEDA has introduced schemes for registering pack houses and processing units. Laboratory recognition and upgrades have been undertaken, with 23 labs recognized. Food safety management certification agencies have been recognized, and packaging standards and transportation protocols developed. Negotiations with the EU are ongoing to safeguard Indian food exports.

8. RBI imposes penalty on State Bank of India for violation of the terms of agreement with RBI

Summary: The Reserve Bank of India has fined State Bank of India Rs. 5,62,555 for breaching terms related to the operation and maintenance of currency chests. This penalty, imposed on July 12, 2013, pertains to deficiencies found at the Secunderabad branch. The violations were identified under specific provisions of RBI circulars dated July 2, 2012.

9. Gross Direct Tax Collection Figures for April-July of the F.Y. 2013-14 is UP by 13.27 Percent and Stand at Rs. 1,57,169 Crore as Against Rs. 1,38,751 Crore in the same Period Last Year

Summary: Gross direct tax collections for April to July in the fiscal year 2013-14 increased by 13.27% to Rs. 1,57,169 crore, compared to Rs. 1,38,751 crore in the same period the previous year. Corporate tax collections rose by 9.75% to Rs. 92,115 crore, while personal income tax collections increased by 19.32% to Rs. 63,583 crore. Net direct tax collections grew by 10.37% to Rs. 1,16,645 crore. Securities Transaction Tax collections reached Rs. 1,267 crore, and wealth tax collections surged by 38.62% to Rs. 201 crore.

10. Overwhelming Response to e-Filing of Itr: 123.03 Lakh Returns e-Filed till 5th August, 2013 Which is 68.3%

Summary: The Central Board of Direct Taxes extended the deadline for filing Income Tax Returns for the assessment year 2013-14 to 5th August 2013, due to a significant increase in e-filing. By this date, 123.03 lakh returns were e-filed, marking a 68.3% increase compared to the previous year. On 5th August alone, 6.92 lakh returns were submitted. Specifically, returns filed under ITR 1 and ITR 2 reached 87,13,493, an 85.8% rise from the previous year's 46,90,279. This surge reflects the growing adoption of e-filing among individuals and Hindu Undivided Families.

11. RBI Reference Rate for US $ and Euro

Summary: The Reserve Bank of India set the reference rate for the US dollar at Rs.61.3940 and for the Euro at Rs.81.6990 on August 7, 2013. The previous day's rates were Rs.61.5355 for the US dollar and Rs.81.5785 for the Euro. Based on these rates, the exchange rate for the British Pound was Rs.94.1723, down from Rs.94.3708, and for 100 Japanese Yen, it was Rs.63.22, up from Rs.62.49. The SDR-Rupee rate will be determined using these reference rates.

12. Reserve Bank of India penalizes The Sarvodaya Sahakari Bank Ltd., Surat (Gujarat)

Summary: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a monetary penalty of Rs. 1 lakh on The Sarvodaya Sahakari Bank Ltd., located in Surat, Gujarat. This action was taken under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, applicable to cooperative societies, due to the bank's violation of RBI instructions by making donations exceeding the prescribed limit. The RBI had issued a show cause notice, and after reviewing the bank's written reply and personal submissions, concluded that the violation was substantiated, justifying the penalty.


Notifications

DGFT

1. 33 (RE–2013)/2009-2014 - dated 7-8-2013 - FTP

Grant of relaxation for import of steel and steel products from the applicability of Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Second Order, 2012

Summary: The Government of India has issued a notification granting exemptions for the import of steel and steel products from the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Second Order, 2012. This exemption applies to projects in sectors such as Infrastructure, Petroleum, and Defense, among others, with a minimum investment of Rs.1000 crore. Imports are restricted to Actual Users, and surplus cannot be sold domestically without meeting quality standards. Quality certification is required from recognized international or national bodies. Importers must submit quarterly reports to the Ministry of Steel and DGFT. The exemption is valid for two years or until further notice.

Income Tax

2. 59/2013 - dated 5-8-2013 - IT

Income-tax (13th Amendment) Rules, 2013 - Statement of income paid or credited by Venture Capital Company or Venture Capital Fund to be furnished under section 115U

Summary: The Income-tax (13th Amendment) Rules, 2013, mandates that Venture Capital Companies or Funds must furnish a statement of income paid or credited under section 115U by November 30 of the financial year following the previous year. This statement, verified by an accountant, must be submitted electronically using Form No. 64. The Director General of Income-tax (Systems) will outline the filing procedure and ensure data security. The amendment also specifies the format and details required in Form No. 64, including income from long-term and short-term capital gains, dividends, and other income from investments in venture capital undertakings.

3. 58/2013 - dated 5-8-2013 - IT

Income-tax (12th Amendment) Rules, 2013 - Furnishing of information by the person responsible for making payment to a non-resident, not being a company, or to a foreign company

Summary: The Income-tax (12th Amendment) Rules, 2013, effective from October 1, 2013, revises Rule 37BB of the Income-tax Rules, 1962. It mandates that individuals responsible for payments to non-residents or foreign companies must furnish specific information using Form No. 15CA. The form varies based on the payment amount and taxability, requiring either Part A, B, or C. Part C necessitates a certificate from an accountant or the Assessing Officer. The information must be submitted electronically and a signed printout provided to the authorized dealer. The Director General of Income-tax (Systems) will oversee data security and administration.


Circulars / Instructions / Orders

Income Tax

1. Instruction No. 10/2013 - dated 5-8-2013

Procedure and criteria for selection of scrutiny cases under compulsory manual during the financial-year 2013-2014-regd.

Summary: The Board issued Instruction No. 10/2013 on August 5, 2013, detailing the procedure and criteria for manually selecting income tax returns for scrutiny in the 2013-2014 financial year. The criteria include cases with international transactions over Rs. 15 crores, significant transfer pricing issues, substantial legal questions, survey assessments, search and seizure cases, responses to specific notices, certain exemption claims, and foreign donations exceeding Rs. 1 crore. The document mandates scrutiny through the AST system and requires monitoring by CCsIT/DGsIT to ensure assessment quality, with reports due by April 30, 2014.


Highlights / Catch Notes

    Income Tax

  • Assessee's Land Surrender: Building Cost Estimated Solely Under M/s. Lumbini Constructions as Assessee's Proportional Share.

    Case-Laws - AT : Since the building was constructed on the land given by the assessee, naturally the cost of the building has to be estimated in the hands of the M/s. Lumbini Constructions alone and proportionate share of the assessee therein, will have to be considered as price for surrendering the land. - AT

  • Rectification Denied: No Apparent Mistake in Tax Return Accepted by Assessing Officer, Application u/s 154 Inadmissible.

    Case-Laws - AT : Rectification of mistake - Since no claim of deduction of exempt income has been made in the return of income and A.O. accepted the return of income filed by assessee as it is, therefore, there was no mistake apparent on record of the Revenue Department. Thus, the rectification application under Section 154 was not maintainable - AT

  • Taxpayer's Cash Incentive Accrued at Claim Filing; VAT Refund Uncertainty Unexplained, Additions Confirmed.

    Case-Laws - AT : Accrual of income - income by way of cash incentive accrued to the assessee at the time of filing of the claim in its respect - assessee has not stated any factual reason/s with regard to the uncertainty that is stated to exist with regard to the claim for VAT refund. - additions confirmed - AT

  • Interest u/s 234D of Income Tax Act Starts from Refund Grant Date, Not Receipt Date.

    Case-Laws - AT : Charging of interest u/s 234D - To claim that the date of receipt of refund should be reckoned as a starting point instead of the date of grant of refund would amount to doing violence to the unambiguous language of the provision. - AT

  • Sale of Shares Taxed as Capital Gains; High Transaction Count Misleading Due to Computer Splits.

    Case-Laws - AT : Profit on sale of shares and securities - The high number of transactions shown in the statement is misleading because these are computer-split transactions and not independent transactions - taxable as capital gains and STCG - AT

  • Customs

  • Appellant Entitled to 4% Special Additional Duty Refund Due to Compliant Chartered Accountant Certificate.

    Case-Laws - AT : Refund of 4% of Special Additional Duty (ADC/SAD) - CA’s certificate produced by the appellant fulfills the requirements and is sufficient to come to the conclusion that appellants are eligible for the refund - AT

  • Claim Special Additional Duty Refunds Within One Year of Payment, Per Notification No. 6/2008.

    Case-Laws - AT : Refund - Bar of limitation - As per the provisions of notification No. 6/2008 refund of SAD has to be made within a period of one year from the date of payment of duty - AT

  • Excise Duty for Units in Specified Area Set to Nil Under Notification 50/2003-C.E.; Affects Countervailing Duty Calculation.

    Case-Laws - HC : CVD - The effective rate of excise duties for a unit located in the specified area mentioned in 50/2003-C.E. is Nil and it is this rate alone which can be applied for the purpose of calculating CVD - HC

  • Service Tax

  • Classification of Services: Site Formation, Earth Moving, and Demolition Not Addressed; Overburden Removal Not Cargo.

    Case-Laws - AT : Classification of Services – Site Formation and Clearance, Earth Moving and Demolition or Cargo Handling - Contention regarding classification has not been raised before the adjudicating authority. - Besides, overburden and wastage for removal cannot be considered as cargo. - AT

  • Court Confirms Service Tax Applies to Gross Value, Including Reimbursable Expenses, Dismissing Appellants' Argument.

    Case-Laws - AT : Valuation - gross value - reimbursement of expenses - Contention of the appellants that no service tax is payable on reimbursable expenses borne by the appellants is not tenable and accordingly rejected - AT

  • Court Orders Refund to Appellants Due to Unaddressed Issues in Revisionary Show Cause Notice by Authority.

    Case-Laws - AT : Validity of order of adjudicating authority – the preliminary objection of no finding given by the revisionary authority on the issues raised in revisionary show cause notice is upheld. - Revenue directed to refund the amount deposited by the appellant’s during the investigation stage - AT

  • Central Excise

  • Entitlement to CENVAT Credit on Service Tax for Rent-a-Cab Services Clarified; Absence in Definition Doesn't Exclude Eligibility.

    Case-Laws - AT : Cenvat credit - Service Tax paid on rent a cab service - merely because these services are not expressly mentioned in the definition of input service it cannot be said that they do not constitute input service and the assessee is not entitled to the benefit of CENVAT credit - AT

  • Interest Confirmed on Differential Duty Due to Price Escalation Clause u/s 11AB.

    Case-Laws - AT : Interest chargeable under Section 11AB on differential duty due to price escalation clause - demand of interest confirmed - AT

  • Assessee not penalized for short payment due to Range officer's negligence u/s 11A(1); no extended duty demand.

    Case-Laws - AT : If the concerned Range officer had checked the returns, the short payment would have been immediately detected - The assessee cannot be penalized by invoking extended period u/s 11A(1) for demand of duty and penal provisions for indolence on the part of the jurisdictional Central Excise officers - AT

  • Job-Worker's Assessable Value Excludes Supplier's Raw Material Losses Under Manufacturing Principle.

    Case-Laws - AT : Assessable value in case of job-worker - allowing deduction towards loss of the person supplying raw material to determine assessable value in the hands of the person undertaking manufacturing activity is not warranted - AT

  • Section 11A: Recover Unpaid Duties Up to 5 Years, No Time Limit for Notice After Fraud Discovery.

    Case-Laws - HC : Extended period of Limitation u/s 11A- Nowhere does this provision refer to the period of service of notice after fraud, collusion, wilful misstatement or suppression, etc. comes to the knowledge of the Department. In simple terms, the Department could recover unpaid duty up to a period of five years anterior to the date of service of notice - HC


Case Laws:

  • Income Tax

  • 2013 (8) TMI 183
  • 2013 (8) TMI 182
  • 2013 (8) TMI 181
  • 2013 (8) TMI 180
  • 2013 (8) TMI 179
  • 2013 (8) TMI 178
  • 2013 (8) TMI 177
  • 2013 (8) TMI 176
  • 2013 (8) TMI 175
  • 2013 (8) TMI 174
  • Customs

  • 2013 (8) TMI 166
  • 2013 (8) TMI 165
  • 2013 (8) TMI 164
  • 2013 (8) TMI 163
  • 2013 (8) TMI 162
  • 2013 (8) TMI 161
  • Service Tax

  • 2013 (8) TMI 172
  • 2013 (8) TMI 171
  • 2013 (8) TMI 170
  • 2013 (8) TMI 169
  • 2013 (8) TMI 168
  • 2013 (8) TMI 167
  • 2013 (8) TMI 159
  • Central Excise

  • 2013 (8) TMI 160
  • 2013 (8) TMI 158
  • 2013 (8) TMI 157
  • 2013 (8) TMI 156
  • 2013 (8) TMI 155
  • 2013 (8) TMI 154
  • 2013 (8) TMI 153
  • 2013 (8) TMI 152
  • 2013 (8) TMI 151
  • CST, VAT & Sales Tax

  • 2013 (8) TMI 173
 

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