What Happens During a GST Inspection or Raid? GST inspections and raids are conducted to detect tax evasion, fraud, or non-compliance with GST laws. The process is governed by the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Act, 2017. 1. When is a GST Inspection or Raid Conducted? - Conducted under Section 67 of the CGST Act, 2017. - Ordered when the Commissioner has reasons to believe that: - A taxpayer is suppressing sales, evading tax, or has committed fraud. - Goods or documents are hidden to avoid tax liability. 2. Procedure for GST Inspection - The Commissioner or authorized officer issues an authorization order. - Inspections are generally carried out at: - Business premises. - Transporters' godowns. - Warehouses. - Any other place where goods are stored or accounts are maintained. - Officers have the power to access books of accounts, documents, computers, and other relevant records. 3. Procedure for GST Raid (Search & Seizure) - Conducted when there is a strong suspicion of deliberate tax evasion. - Officers are authorized to: - Enter and search premises. - Break open doors, boxes, and other storage units if access is denied. - Seize goods, documents, and books of accounts that are considered important for investigation. - A panchnama (written record of seizure) is prepared, detailing all seized items. - Seized items may be returned upon payment of due tax, penalty, or completion of the investigation. 4. Rights of the Taxpayer During Inspection or Raid - Demand to see the authorization order before allowing the inspection. - Request a copy of the seizure report (panchnama). - Legal representation can be present during the search. - Receive a list of items/documents seized. 5. Post-Raid Proceedings - A notice is issued if tax evasion is detected, demanding payment of tax along with penalties. - The taxpayer can reply to the notice and provide necessary evidence. - In case of non-compliance, the department can initiate recovery proceedings. 6. Penalties & Consequences - Tax evasion can attract penalties up to 100% of the tax evaded. - In severe cases, it can lead to imprisonment ranging from 6 months to 5 years, depending on the tax amount involved. 7. Common Triggers for Inspections or Raids - Mismatch between GST returns and e-way bills. - Suspiciously high or low turnover. - Failure to comply with notices and summons. - Anonymous complaints or information received by the department.