The State Goods and Services Tax ( GST ) Department Officials, along with Rajasthan State Tax Service Association and Institute of Chartered Accountants of India ( ICAI ) representatives held a meeting over the disputed matter of allegations against the State GST Department by a Chartered Accountant on Social Media platform X.
On September 11, CA Jatin Harjai had stated on X, formerly twitter that, “Across india #GST offices are nest of corruption. Officers are literally nothing to do with law of the land
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Most of times they work like recovery agents. Recovery may be personal or for govt treasury to fulfill target. Hell for honest taxpayer & haven for tax evaders
RIP EODB🙏.”
Subsequently, In an emergency meeting held on September 12, 2024, the Association denounced the claims made by CA Harjai on social media, where he had accused GST officers of acting as “recovery agents” rather than upholding the law.
Read More: Tax Professionals Rally Behind CA Jatin Harjai After GST Corruption Remarks Spark Controversy
Despite the backlash from the GST officers and the passing of a resolution against Harjai, many members of the tax community, including chartered accountants and tax practitioners, have voiced their support for Harjai’s bold stance. They argue that his comments reflect genuine concerns shared by several professionals about the working of GST offices and their heavy-handed approach toward honest taxpayers.
In response to the Association’s demands for an apology and the deletion of the post, many tax professionals have rallied in defence of Harjai, highlighting that his statements merely bring to light the challenges faced by taxpayers and practitioners alike. These supporters emphasise that, rather than targeting the messenger, the system should focus on addressing corruption and the undue pressure on GST officers to meet recovery targets.
To clear the air, the meeting held helps to reassure taxpayers, professionals, officials of the Rajasthan State GST Dept, and stakeholders concluded recently to address the issue.
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“A joint meeting was held between officials of the GST Department, RSTSA, and representatives of ICAI, during which the disputed matter was amicably resolved. Both professional colleagues of ICAI and officers of the GST Department will continue to fulfill their respective responsibilities, contributing to the development and growth of the state and the nation.”, posted CA Rohit Ruwatia on X
While CA Harjai’s outspoken remarks on social media ignited a significant debate about the practices of GST officers, the swift and constructive response from the State GST Department, RSTSA, and ICAI not only addresses the immediate concerns raised but also reinforces the commitment of both government officials and tax professionals to maintain integrity and improve the GST framework, reminding the essential nature of the balance between enforcing tax laws and ensuring fair treatment of honest taxpayers.
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