The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs ( CBIC ) has directed zonal heads to ensure that officers are immediately de-mapped from the GST portal upon their retirement or transfer. The directive follows a specific case in which a former officer, who had not been de-mapped, sanctioned a fraudulent refund.
The move was initiated based on recommendations from the Directorate General of Vigilance, CBIC, which stressed the need for stringent controls on access to the Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) portal.
According to the CBIC, the de-mapping process should be carried out promptly once an officer has been relieved of their responsibilities, either due to retirement or transfer. By doing so, the CBIC aims to eliminate potential vulnerabilities that may arise from lingering access rights.
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Supervisory officers have been assigned a key role in this process. They are tasked with monitoring the de-mapping of officers to ensure compliance with the directive. This oversight involves not only the prompt removal of access rights but also the maintenance of detailed records documenting the de-mapping process.
The directive underscores the need for vigilance and proactive measures in maintaining the integrity of the GST system. Unauthorized access to the GST portal can lead to significant risks, including the potential misuse of sensitive taxpayer information and the fraudulent processing of refunds.
By tightening control over access, particularly in cases of officers who have retired or been transferred, the CBIC seeks to safeguard the GST system from exploitation.
Complete Supreme Court Judgment on GST from 2017 to 2024 with Free E-Book Access, Click here
The CBIC has urged all zonal heads to strictly adhere to these guidelines to ensure that any retired or transferred officer is de-mapped without delay. The vigilance wing will continue to monitor compliance, ensuring that such incidents are not repeated in the future.
This directive is an attempt to strengthen the overall governance framework within the GST administration, thereby enhancing trust and confidence in the Goods and Services Tax system.
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