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We stay up-to-date and periodically share insightful commentary and analysis on the legal issues shaping businesses, both domestically and globally. Our opinionised articles offer fresh perspective on current burning issues, thus keeping you ahead of the curve.
The article discusses a recent decision of the Bombay High Court striking down the amendment to Rule 3(1)(b)(v) of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2023. The Rule required intermediaries to remove content relating to Government business flagged by an Fact Checking Unit as fake, false, or misleading.
The article in this issue of Direct Tax Amicus discusses the issue of whether an intimation under Section 143(1) of the Income Tax Act, 1961 will automatically merge with an assessment order under Section 143(3). Considering various decisions of the ITAT, the authors note that it can be inferred that a strait jacket formula cannot be adopted for applying the Doctrine of Merger.
The article discusses the recent decision of Delhi High Court of Zydus Wellness Products Limited v. Prashant Desai . The court highlights the importance of Social Media Influencers to avoid commenting on topics outside the realm of their expertise.
The article discusses the recent judgement of Lacoste & Anr. v. Crocodile International Pte Ltd. Wherein the Delhi High Court ruled upon a two-decade long conflict between so-called ‘mirror’ logos of a crocodile/ saurian. The judgment also highlights the test of the various principles and procedures, which lie in disputes that are subject to trial.
BIS Amicus – September 2024 / Issue 3, as available here, delved into the key legal provisions of the BIS Act, 2016. Standing adjacent to the comprehensive regulatory framework of BIS are Indian Standards and Quality Control Orders that can have far-fetched implications for businesses manufacturing or importing goods and services in the Indian market.
The article provides a detailed discussion of a recent Bombay High Court decision in Asset Auto v. UoI, which reviews the discretionary power provided to the Regional Director of the central Government in respect of fast-track mergers provided under Section 233 of the Companies Act, 2013. According to the High Court, the Regional Director does not have the power to outrightly reject the scheme.
Anti-dumping measures are implemented by countries to protect their domestic industries from the negative effects of unfair trade practices, such as dumping. Dumping occurs when foreign manufacturers/exporters export a product to another country at a price lower than its normal value, often below the cost of production or selling prices in the exporting country.
The article highlights the impact of Tiger Global judgment on taxation of indirect transfer of shares of an Indian company where grandfathering benefit is not available. The authors state that the decision may pose hurdles in cases where grandfathering benefit is not available.
The article summarises the amendments related to capital gains tax made to simplify the characterization of long-term assets, computation of gains and application of tax rates which will have a significant impact on taxpayers transferring their capital assets on or after 23 July 2024. The authors also highlight key aspects which warrant taxpayers’ attention.
The article discusses the anti-dilution rights which is the most common armour provided to investors against a down round funding raised by any company. These can be exercised in two ways - the first being full ratchet anti-dilution protection while the second is weighted average method of computation.
Under Indian anti-dumping law and practice, the qualification of the applicant domestic producers to constitute the domestic industry is sometimes a contested issue. The article in this issue of International Trade Amicus discusses some of the relevant jurisprudence on the issue of the DGTR’s discretion in determining the standing of a producer(s) under the relevant provisions.
The article discusses the recent abolition of Angel Tax. According to the authors, if the tax officers don’t show restraint in taxing the capital investment, the intended relief may not come and the tax bills may just increase due to high tax rates.
The article covers major changes that are proposed to be implemented upon the final release of the Foreign Exchange Management (Export and Import of Goods and Services) Regulations, 2024 and the draft direction on export of goods and services. The Reserve Bank of India has invited public comments and feedback on the Draft Trade Regulations and Draft Trade Directions by 1 September 2024.
The article discusses draft Foreign Exchange Management (Export and Import of Goods and Services) Regulations, 2024 and draft Directions to Authorised Dealers on Export and Import of Goods and Services, in respect of Merchanting Trade Transaction, and points out various ambiguities.
Garnishee of Garnishee’ is triggered when the garnishee fails to make the payment to the creditor of its debtor and pursuant to which, the creditor seeks to recover money from the debtors of the garnishee. The article discusses in detail the question as to whether the tax department has power to go after the debtors of the garnishee i.e., whether it would lead to issuance of notice under Section 226(3) to garnishee of garnishee.
Arbitration clauses in cross-border transactions – Indian perspective
In the era of globalization, India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Owing to its increased consumption and a large young workforce, India has attracted interest from several multinational corporations and consumer companies who are looking to expand their business in newer territories.
Arbitration agreement, which is part of an unstamped contract, has no existence
The Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court has held that arbitration cannot be invoked when the arbitration agreement or clause is contained in an unstamped or insufficiently stamped agreement or contract. According to the authors, even though this issue arises at the preliminary stage of the arbitration, the Apex Court had ordered to ensure sufficient stamping of the instruments.
Status of registration for arbitration under MSME Act, 2006
Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (‘MSMEs’) are considered as the engine of economic growth. With the object of facilitating promotion, development and enhancing the competitiveness of MSMEs, the Indian Parliament enacted The Micro Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act (‘Act’) in 2006. One of the key provisions of the Act is that it provides a forum and mechanism for speedy recovery of delayed payments to micro and small enterprises.
Contractual claims, Arbitration and the Insolvency Code – The interplay and fault lines
The Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code, 2017 (‘Code’) was, inter alia, enacted for the resolution or liquidation of companies defaulting on their debts. These debts may include claims subject to an arbitration or sums determined in the form of an award. In the present article, we identify some potential scenarios where parties to an arbitration agreement must be conscious of the interplay between arbitration and the Code.
Limitation for filing of appeals under Section 37 of Arbitration and Conciliation Act
Section 37 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 (‘Act’) provides for an appeal against orders passed under Sections 9, 34, 16 and 17 of the Act. The Act does not provide any specific limitation for filing such appeals, however, Section 43 of the Act provides that the Limitation Act, 1963 (‘Limitation Act’) shall apply to arbitrations as it applies to proceedings in Court.
Writ jurisdiction over orders of Arbitral Tribunal: Certa lege but still agitated
This article covers a recent decision of the Gujarat High Court where the Court has reiterated that the order of the arbitral tribunal could not be challenged in writ proceedings under Articles 226 and 227 of the Constitution of India. The authors note that though the question of maintainability of writ proceedings against an order of the arbitral tribunal has been settled in a long line of decisions.
Arbitrability of disputes post execution of ‘unconditional discharge vouchers’ – An analysis
One of the common defenses taken by a party, facing a claim in an arbitration is that the contract has already been discharged by performance, however, it is not uncommon for the claimant to dispute the discharge voucher signed by it and claim that it was executed under fraud, coercion or undue influence.
Standards and Quality Control Orders: The backbone of India’s quality revolution
BIS Amicus – September 2024 / Issue 3, as available here, delved into the key legal provisions of the BIS Act, 2016. Standing adjacent to the comprehensive regulatory framework of BIS are Indian Standards and Quality Control Orders that can have far-fetched implications for businesses manufacturing or importing goods and services in the Indian market.
Quality Control Orders – The recent surge and challenges
The article discusses the recent surge in Quality Control Orders and the various challenges being faced by the industry. The author notes that at present import of raw material for use in manufacture of finished goods which would be exported, is also being denied if the imports are not in compliance of these quality control orders. He also discusses the applicability of such Orders on stock in hand.
Classification of goods under the correct tariff item is the first and the most litigative issue in any tax jurisdiction. The article hence analyses the implications of a Madras HC decision which has held that flavored milk is classifiable under Heading 0402 and not under Heading 2202 covering beverage containing milk. Deliberating on the reasoning of the High Court and the relevance of this decision, the authors highlight various issues which need to be understood by the industry.
Classification of indigenous ‘Rab’ prepared from sugar cane: The final decision
The issue of classification of the product ‘Rab’ (semi-solid sugarcane juice) and applicable rate of tax on its supply has been a subject matter of dispute for a long time. The article intends to highlight the divergent practices followed by the industry and analyse if the CBIC Circular No. 189/01/2023-GST, dated 13 January 2023 has resolved the issue in entirety. Elaborately analysing the issues and concerns...
Bid-Rigging in Public Procurement: An Indian Perspective
The Competition Commission of India (“CCI”) in recent years, has become a vigorous regulator. Frequent, suo moto investigations, exemplary penalties to create a deterrent effect, and market studies to better understand evolving markets are some of the actions taken by the CCI in the past few years.
Contractual claims, Arbitration and the Insolvency Code – The interplay and fault lines
The Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code, 2017 (‘Code’) was, inter alia, enacted for the resolution or liquidation of companies defaulting on their debts. These debts may include claims subject to an arbitration or sums determined in the form of an award. In the present article, we identify some potential scenarios where parties to an arbitration agreement must be conscious of the interplay between arbitration and the Code.
Extension of limitation by Apex Court due to second wave of Covid-19
The sudden onset of the pandemic Covid-19 in March 2020 had pushed litigants across the country into hardships with respect to the filing of petitions/ suits/ appeals/ applications etcetera and initiating and continuing legal proceedings before the various Courts and Tribunals.
Writ jurisdiction over orders of Arbitral Tribunal: Certa lege but still agitated
This article covers a recent decision of the Gujarat High Court where the Court has reiterated that the order of the arbitral tribunal could not be challenged in writ proceedings under Articles 226 and 227 of the Constitution of India. The authors note that though the question of maintainability of writ proceedings against an order of the arbitral tribunal has been settled in a long line of decisions.
Arbitrability of disputes post execution of ‘unconditional discharge vouchers’ – An analysis
One of the common defenses taken by a party, facing a claim in an arbitration is that the contract has already been discharged by performance, however, it is not uncommon for the claimant to dispute the discharge voucher signed by it and claim that it was executed under fraud, coercion or undue influence.
Lapsing of land acquisition proceedings – Supreme Court Larger Bench answers reference
The Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 (“2013 Act”) was passed with a view to address various inadequacies in the existing Land Acquisition Act, 1894 (“1894 Act”). The 2013 Act contains provisions for enhanced compensation as well as rehabilitation and resettlement.
Performance Securities - Legal Principles and early decisions on enforcement during COVID-19
Bank guarantees, letters of credit, pledges and other similar instruments cement commercial dealings by securing payment against default of a contract. A key aspect of such security instruments is also that they are usually exercisable at the unilateral option of the holder, in order to ensure timely cashflow, despite a pending dispute as to whether the default has occurred.
Revisiting Contractual Theory and Obligations in the Times of COVID-19
Amongst other objectives, contracts are about the allocation of risksbetween contracting parties. Risks that may hinder or absolutely obviate the possibility performance are therefore addressed, either by parties themselves in the contract, or by the legal rule of frustration of contracts.
“To Deal or Not to Deal is the real question” - Vertical Restraints in the FMCG Sector
One of the objectives of the Competition Act, 2002 (“Act”) is to ensure that all market participants enjoy freedom of trade, allowing them to freely decide their choice of business, their modus operandi, and take other commercial decisions.
Merger Control in India : A Review of the Year 2021
Mergers and acquisitions in India reached near an all-time high in the year 2021 after deals worth US $90.4 billion were struck in the first nine months. Of these, a total of 95 combinations were notified to the Competition Commission of India (“CCI”).
The year 2021 has been quite enriching for the competition law regime in India with multiple investigations ordered into varied sectors such as technology, sports, cinema and automobile. The year ended with the Competition Commission of India (“CCI") directing an investigation into allegations of abuse of dominance by Apple in the market for app stores for iOS in India.
Leniency, dawn raid & penalty | A case of cartelization in the beer market
The wave of dawn raids by Competition Commission of India (“CCI”) has yet again shown its result in the form of the recent decision of CCI, which found three beer companies to be operating an all-India cartel. In an order dated 24.09.2021 , CCI found United Breweries Limited (“UBL”), Carlsberg India Private Limited (“Carlsberg”),
Vertical restraints: A competition analysis of car dealer discount policy
The Competition Commission of India (“CCI”) in its order dated 23.08.2021 penalized Maruti Suzuki India Limited (“Maruti”) with a fine of INR 200 crore for its Discount Control Policy (“DCP”). The DCP restricted the amount of discount a Maruti dealer could offer to its customers. Maruti also required the dealers to seek prior approval if they wanted to offer discounts (cash and non-cash) beyond the prescribed limits.
Draft E-commerce Rules: Blurring the lines between Consumer Protection and Competition Law
The Ministry of Consumer Affairs published the draft amendments to the Consumer Protection (E-commerce) Rules, 2020 on 21 June 2021 (‘Draft Rules’). The Draft Rules seek to introduce several new concepts, restrict certain business practices of e-commerce entities and impose numerous obligations on e-commerce entities operating in India.
Businesses constantly seek to innovate to obtain an edge over their competition and sometimes this leads to particularly noteworthy innovations that become disruptive forces within the market segment. This allows the innovator to determine their own price for their products and operate independent of the market forces of supply and demand
CCI’s market study into the telecom sector in India: Key observations
Recently, on 22 January 2021, the Competition Commission of India (‘CCI’) released its key findings and observations from a study exploring the evolution of the sector and the present regulatory challenges relating to the sector. Through the study, the CCI assessed the market dynamics within the sector and highlighted developments in the sector which could lead to competition concerns in the present and foreseeable future
A multi-jurisdictional review of legislative trends in antitrust regulation of digital markets
Big-tech giants are under constant scrutiny by antitrust regulators globally. There is also consensus that the existing antitrust framework are not sufficient for addressing various competition and privacy challenges. As a result, different jurisdictions are working on amending their current laws to deal with the issues emanating from the practices of the giants of the digital markets. This article discusses the major legislative and policy developments being proposed in India, US, EU and UK.
The Evolving Dynamics of Competition Regulation in Digital Markets
Rapid technological advancement has given birth to new products and services which are ever-evolving and an unchartered territory for competition regulators. Digital markets have grown from being considered an extension of brick and mortar markets to an alternate market unto themselves in less than half a decade.
CCI’s changed approach to enforcement amidst the pandemic
The Competition Commission of India’s (“CCI”) regular functioning continues to stand suspended amid the COVID-19 pandemic since March 2020. The Indian antitrust regulator however was quick to adapt to the changed circumstances and adopted a modus operandi which allowed for parties to submit merger notifications as well as responses in on-going investigations and new informations online.
Regulatory Tussle: Competition Commission of India v. Controller of Patents & Ors.
In its brief 11-year existence, the Competition Commission of India (“CCI”) has investigated anti-competitive conduct across several diverse sectors of the Indian economy. The CCI is the sole quasi-judicial and regulatory body established under the Competition Act, 2002 (as amended) (“Competition Act”).
The Delhi High Court has upheld the CCI’s jurisdiction in matters concerning alleged anti-competitive practices for protection of the Patent Rights but at the same time upheld his previous decision clearly holding that the domain of CCI and Patent Controller are distinct and not necessarily in conflict.
Competition Law at the NCLAT: A Three Year Round - Up
In an effort to streamline the functioning of tribunals in India, the Finance Act, 2017 brought appeals filed against the orders of the Competition Commission of India (CCI)under the Competition Act, 2002 (CompetitionAct) within the purview of the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT).
Businesses across the world have been impacted by the global pandemic, COVID – 19 and State measures have brought many economies to a standstill. It is inevitable that the next few months are going to present new challenges to businesses.While certain industries such as airlines, entertainment, hotels etc. will struggle to get back on their feet, essential commodities, pharmaceuticals and healthcare providers will be strained with unprecedented demand.
Legislative changes under Budget 2024-25 – Introduction of ‘fetters’ to beneficial character of MOOWR scheme
In this article, an attempt shall be made to explore the ramifications of a specific legislative change introduced in Budget 2024-25 vide Clause 101 of Finance (No.2) Bill, 2024 (‘Finance Bill’) in relation to Section 65 of the Customs Act, 1962 (‘Customs Act’). The amendment proposed under Clause 101 of the Finance Bill shall come into effect on the date of enactment of the Finance (No.2) Act, 2024.
Is the difference between Tax and Fees obliterated?
The article discusses the difference between Tax and Fees and how the Courts in recent time are diverting from the earlier decisions highlighting the difference between Tax and Fees.
Game-changing Customs and FTP changes: What you need to know after the 2024 Interim Budget
The article discusses few recent changes which one needs to know under Customs and Foreign Trade Policy. The Ministry of Commerce has extended the RoDTEP benefit to Advance Authorisation holders, Export Oriented Units and units in Special Economic Zone, and has relaxed the mandatory Quality Control Order compliance for import of inputs under Advance Authorisation and by EOU, for use in exports.
The concept of ‘restriction’ imposed on export of goods as indicated in the Indian Trade Classification (ITC (HS)) has been the subject matter of judicial interpretation before various forums. The article analyses a recent Gujarat High Court decision in the case of Satyendra Packaging Limited v. Union of India, which has sparked some controversy towards the settled understanding of the issue.
Export duty on iron ore and steel intermediaries – An industry perspective!
The Government has with effect from 19 November 2022 rolled back export duty on iron ore pellets and steel products, including pig iron, flat-rolled products of carbon steel and stainless steel, bars, rods and non-alloy steel, vide Notification No. 58/2022-Customs, dated 18 November 2022.
Essentiality Certificates under Customs and GST laws: Need for synchronization
Petroleum is an indispensable commodity for the fulfilment of daily human needs. Not only does the petroleum industry act as a nodal industry for other industries like textile, automobile etc., petroleum has deep-rooted impact on the inflation rate and economic growth of a country.
The article highlights the changes in entries relating to electric vehicles (‘EV’) and their probable impact on the EV ecosystem in India. Discussing the amendments made by a notification issued as part of Budget 2022 proposals, the authors point out that though there is no change in the rate of duty, the changes carried out in the description in context of the form and the manner in which the goods are to be imported is likely to cause muddle among the industry and the field formations.
Westinghouse Saxby Farmer Ltd. – The saga continues
The Supreme Court’s decision in Westinghouse Saxby Farmer Ltd. v. CCE, Calcutta (‘Westinghouse decision’) evoked an intriguing discussion on the classification of ‘relays’ used as part of Railway signalling systems.
RoDTEP Scheme – Should it work within the budgetary limit?
The Central Government recently notified the much-awaited Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products Scheme (‘RoDTEP Scheme’) with retrospective effect i.e., for exports from 1 January 2021, with certain exclusions. The article explores the answer to the question as to whether imposition of budgetary limit imposed by the government would allow the scheme to achieve its objective of refunding the duties and taxes which are not refunded/remitted/credited under any other schemes.
Extension of limitation by Apex Court due to second wave of Covid-19
The sudden onset of the pandemic Covid-19 in March 2020 had pushed litigants across the country into hardships with respect to the filing of petitions/ suits/ appeals/ applications etcetera and initiating and continuing legal proceedings before the various Courts and Tribunals.
Customs in-bond manufacturing – Old scheme with new prospects
With export promotion schemes like EOU, SEZ and EPCG being challenged at the international forums, alleged to be in violation of the WTO agreement, the thrust of the government has now shifted to age old scheme of duty deferment and manufacturing in customs bonded warehouse. The article makes a case for shifting to such scheme. Discussing various aspects of the Customs in-bond manufacturing.
Rejection of transaction value – Overcoming die-hard practices of the department
Customs Valuation has been an impediment to better trade facilitation and inhibits ease of doing business in India. There is a need for systemic improvement and procedural clarity for reducing disputes pertaining to Customs Valuation.
Well begun is half done – Examining adequacy of initiatives by Commerce Ministry providing reliefs under FTP
The lockdowns due to COVID-19 in various countries have shrunk global trade with countries choosing to protect their people first before opening any further borders. The Government has also been tweaking the Import and Export Policy for many goods keeping in view the requirement of these goods in India. The Government has also issued an Ordinance, circulars, press releases, etc., on various relief measures for the benefit of the trade and industry.
Due to Novel COVID-19, partial / complete lockdown has been imposed in various countries across the world. The Hon’ble Prime Minister of India on March 23, 2020 announced a complete lockdown throughout the country for 21 days, as a preventive measure to slow down the spreading of the virus.
Considering that nowadays airlines industry is almost always in the news for one reason or another, this may be the best time to highlight one of the issues being faced by this industry.
Demand without challenging assessment – Is it sustainable?
The ruling of the Supreme Court in ITC v. CCE, Kolkata [2019 (368) ELT 216] has been quite unsettling for the assessees, as their refund claims are being rejected on account of non-challenge to the assessment. However, this ruling is likely to pose an issue for the department as well.
Fact Check Unit amendment invalidated – Intermediaries in the line
The article discusses a recent decision of the Bombay High Court striking down the amendment to Rule 3(1)(b)(v) of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2023. The Rule required intermediaries to remove content relating to Government business flagged by an Fact Checking Unit as fake, false, or misleading.
The invisible tightrope: Navigating employer’s interests and employee’s privacy in India’s DPDP era
The article discusses the seven fundamentals, cutting across specific provisions of the DPDP Act and critically examines the core principles underpinning the Act from the employers’ perspective. According to the authors, it is best if employers brace up and begin compliance preparations at the earliest and start preparing an updated data protection policy.
DPDPA: Concerns and impact in the online gaming world
The article discusses how the gaming industry will be impacted by the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. It discusses how the new law once enforced will require platforms, gaming developers, and gamers (or users) alike to pay attention to the framework under which personal data may be processed, notices reviewed, consents provided (where required) and rights exercised with regard to the processing of personal data.
MEITY Advisory: Dawn of AI Regulation in India or a false start
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has on 15 March 2024 issued an advisory on use and deployment of artificial intelligence tools. The advisory subsumes a previous advisory dated 1 March 2024 on this subject. As part of the now expanded diligence requirements as per new advisory, the article elaborately discusses what the new advisory now requires the intermediaries to ensure.
Decoding Fiduciaries and Processors: The DPDPA lens
The article dives deep into the understanding of certain key actors engaged in the processing of personal data – Data Fiduciaries and Data Processors. Observing that while Fiduciaries, by their nature, are expected to exercise decisional control over the purposes and means of processing, and Processors act on the former’s instructions, the article outline various complex situations where the roles blur.
Consent Managers under Digital Personal Data Protection Act – Bridging the gap between Data Principal and Data Fiduciary
The article discusses the measures introduced under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (‘DPDP Act’) to address challenges around management of data principals’ consent. The authors note that it is important for entities offering consent management services to ensure that their activities do not fall within the ambit of data processing.
Future of targeted and behavioral advertising in India – Analysing CJEU’s Judgment on Meta Platforms
The article analyses a recent decision of the CJEU and its implications in the background of the Indian data privacy laws. In this regard, it is pertinent to note that India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (‘ DPDP Act ’) will be notified soon and companies involved in processing of personal data for targeted advertising may need to revisit and revise their policies to comply with the law.
As the recently passed Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (‘DPDPA’) awaits implementation guidance from the Government, it is slated to have significant impact across all sectors and industries. As a result of the same, entities would have to reimagine data handling practices when processing personal data of customers, employees and other third parties who are individuals.
Digital Personal Data Protection Act – Implications for financial entities and fin-tech sector
The article discusses elaborately the implications of the new Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 for the financial entities and the fin-tech sector. It, in this regard, discusses topics like, meeting consent and notice requirements; interplay with sectoral regulations; legitimate purposes for processing; and how Data Fiduciaries in the financial sector need to review internal protocols and mechanisms concerning disclosure and/or sharing of personal data. Similarly, the article also...
Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023: Implementing India’s Data Protection Revamp (Part 1)
This article is the first in a series of articles that discusses the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023 and outlines key obligations and action items that may be implemented by Fiduciaries and other entities under the Bill.
Pacing towards a data protection law: Analysing the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023
The Minister of Electronics & Information Technology introduced the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023 on 3 August 2023 , in the Lok Sabha. The Bill is a successor to the Draft Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2022 which was released by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology in November 2022. The article provides the comparative insights on the Bill vis-à-vis its 2022 counterpart.
The Digital India Act (DIA) is set to replace the Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act) on account of a transformed internet landscape today, with significant internet penetration, multiple intermediaries operating across the internet and complex forms of user harms. The article hence discusses the glimpse into the Digital India Act, as presented recently by the Minister of State for Electronics & Information Technology. The authors in this regard discuss how the DIA lays importance...
Indo-Pacific Economic Framework and future of cross-border data flows
India, 13 (thirteen) other Asian countries and the United States are part of an Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) which share a commitment to free, open, fair and a prosperous Indo-Pacific that has the potential to achieve sustained and inclusive economic growth.
Advent of a new-era Digital India Act – Key aspects to look out
The Government is in the process of drafting a ‘Digital India Act’ which is slated to replace the Information Technology Act, 2000 and propose a comprehensive framework for IT, regulation of social media platforms, streaming platforms, govern use and deployment of new technologies and introduce certain other provisions. The article highlights the focal points of this regulation and provides some thoughts on each of those aspects.
Data Protection Bill withdrawn: Roadblocks towards a comprehensive data protection framework
This week witnessed yet another roadblock towards a comprehensive data protection framework for India, as the Data Protection Bill, 2021 (‘Bill’), as reported by the Joint Committee of the Parliament (‘JCP’), was withdrawn in the Parliament , amidst reports that a comprehensive legal framework is being worked upon, considering the recommendations of the JCP.
Data Privacy in India: Implementation Series – Preparing a Privacy Notice – Part 2
In Part 1 of the Implementation Series, we discussed the first four essentials as proposed under the Data Protection Bill, 2021 (the ‘Bill’). Here, we will deal with the next four elements of a privacy notice specified under Clause 7 of the Bill.
Data Privacy in India: Implementation Series - Preparing a Privacy Notice - Part 1
India is moving towards a privacy conscious regime and is trying to catch up with the world on recognizing privacy in digital space. While handling personal data, a data fiduciary is to adhere to the principles of lawfulness, transparency, fairness, data minimisation, accuracy, integrity, accountability, purpose and storage limitation.
Analyzing the new CERT-IN Directions: Wider gamut than breach reporting
The CERT-IN has released a set of Directions dated April 28, 2022 under the Information Technology Act (“Directions”) which relate to reporting of cyber security incidents and adopting additional measures towards protection of the IT and internet ecosystem in India. The article discusses the directions, enhanced obligations and new obligations introduced under the Directions for virtual private networks, virtual private servers and virtual asset providers.
Evolving cooperation on facilitating easier cross-border data flows
Transfers of personal data and non-personal data across borders remains an aspect of significant concern and consideration in the growth of digital economies.
Aarogya Setu is a mobile application launched by the Government of India on April 2, 2020. As per the terms of service of the Aarogya Setu Application (“ASA”), the intention is to provide a service to notify, trace, and suitably support a registered user regarding the COVID-19 infection. The press release1 issued by the Ministry of Electronics and IT explains the functioning of the application in the following manner
Data is becoming increasingly important in the current business landscape. Regulators, policy makers and business houses alike are concerned with how privacy and data security impact the economy. According to a 2016 report by McKinsey, all types of data flows acting together have raised world GDP by 10.1 percent over what would have resulted in a world without any cross-border flows of data.
Applicability of Doctrine of Merger between intimation under Section 143(1) and assessment order under Section 143(3)
The article in this issue of Direct Tax Amicus discusses the issue of whether an intimation under Section 143(1) of the Income Tax Act, 1961 will automatically merge with an assessment order under Section 143(3). Considering various decisions of the ITAT, the authors note that it can be inferred that a strait jacket formula cannot be adopted for applying the Doctrine of Merger.
Fate of Indirect Transfer Tax post Tiger Global judgment – Will it add hurdles for MNEs?
The article highlights the impact of Tiger Global judgment on taxation of indirect transfer of shares of an Indian company where grandfathering benefit is not available. The authors state that the decision may pose hurdles in cases where grandfathering benefit is not available.
Taxation of real estate transactions: A post-budget analysis
The article summarises the amendments related to capital gains tax made to simplify the characterization of long-term assets, computation of gains and application of tax rates which will have a significant impact on taxpayers transferring their capital assets on or after 23 July 2024. The authors also highlight key aspects which warrant taxpayers’ attention.
Flew too close to the Sun: The impact of abolishment of Angel Tax in India
The article discusses the recent abolition of Angel Tax. According to the authors, if the tax officers don’t show restraint in taxing the capital investment, the intended relief may not come and the tax bills may just increase due to high tax rates.
Garnishee of a garnishee: The Income Tax perspective
Garnishee of Garnishee’ is triggered when the garnishee fails to make the payment to the creditor of its debtor and pursuant to which, the creditor seeks to recover money from the debtors of the garnishee. The article discusses in detail the question as to whether the tax department has power to go after the debtors of the garnishee i.e., whether it would lead to issuance of notice under Section 226(3) to garnishee of garnishee.
Timely payments to MSMEs – A beneficial amendment with a delayed clarity in Income Tax provisions
The article discusses Section 43B(h) of the Income Tax Act, 1961 which was introduced by Finance Act, 2023. Observing that despite the well-placed intent behind introducing the aforesaid provision, the cross-linkage of the Income Tax Act with the MSME Act may cause certain ambiguities specifically concerning the deduction of the provision of expenses, calculating the time limit under the MSME Act, etc.
Filing statutory forms within specified time to avail tax benefits: Whether mandatory or directory?
The Courts in the past have held that the filing of statutory forms within the due date prescribed under the Income Tax Act, 1961, is a directory (and not mandatory) requirement, to claim deductions/exemptions that are available to taxpayers. Recently, however, the Supreme Court judgment in Wipro Limited changed the course of the river. The author observes that such a drastic consequence does not seem to be the intention of the Supreme Court.
Impact of Section 281 on transfer of assets: Myriad issues thereunder
Section 281 of the Income Tax Act, 1961 empowers the Department to declare a transfer of an asset as void where the transferor, during the pendency of any proceedings or completion thereof, but before the service of notice by a TRO, creates a charge on, or parts with the possession of any of his ‘assets’ in favour of another person. Considering the far-reaching consequences of the provision, the article highlights few practical issues.
Is the difference between Tax and Fees obliterated?
The article discusses the difference between Tax and Fees and how the Courts in recent time are diverting from the earlier decisions highlighting the difference between Tax and Fees.
From a taxman lens: Life Insurance Policy vis-à-vis Annuity – The modern-day conundrum
The drastic difference in income-tax treatment of both – Life Insurance Policies and Annuities, requires closer examination of their meaning to distinguish one from another. Demonstrating that there is a thin line of difference between features offered by modern iterations of life insurance policies and annuities, the author points out that it is crucial for insurance companies to take proactive steps to separate the elements of the life insurance policies from that of annuities.
Disallowance under Section 40(a)(i) on payment made to non-residents – Whether violative of Non-Discrimination Article in tax treaty?
This article seeks to analyze the applicability of the non-discrimination article in tax treaties on disallowance of expenses on payment made to non-residents without withholding the applicable taxes. Decoding the legal position, the authors delve into the litigation trends and ponder over the question as to whether Section 40(a)(i) of the Income Tax Act, 1961 in its present form is violative of non-discrimination Article in tax treaty.
Will the recent ruling on Benami law dig up old deals?
The Article discusses the recent decision by the Delhi Appellate Tribunal in the case of Prism Scan Express Pvt Limited v. DCIT . The decision provided a wakeup call to all those who were under the belief that their old trades would not come under the glare of Benami Law, taking shelter of the decision of the Apex Court in the case of Ganpati Dealcom Pvt Ltd v. UoI which held that the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Amendment Act, 2016 shall not apply retrospectively.
Interplay between foreign taxpayers’ global profits and PE profit attribution
The article discusses the issue of attribution of profits in case of losses at the global level, which has once again gathered spotlight as the Delhi High Court in Hyatt International Southwest Asia Limited has expressed its prima facie disagreement with the decision in Nokia Solutions and has referred the issue to a Larger Bench. Discussing Article 7 of the DTAA and Rule 10 of the Income Tax Rules, the authors state that the LB decision will have a major impact.
Income-tax implications of issues of shares at a discount
The issue of shares by a company and its subscription by a shareholder is ordinarily on capital account, from the perspective of the company as well as the shareholder. No income can arise on issuance of shares by a company.
SC Ruling on MFN Clause in Tax Treaty: A conundrum for the tax deductors in India?
Recently, the Supreme Court of India passed a judgment interpreting the Most Favoured Nation (‘MFN’) clause present in various Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (‘DTAAs’). In essence, an MFN clause is incorporated in DTAAs entered into by India with a country (say second state) by which a promise is made by India to give the same benefit or preferential treatment which India may accord to another country (say third state) in future.
Deciphering tax puzzle of loan-to-equity conversions
Businesses nowadays are coming up with pioneering strategies to keep afloat amidst financial stress. One of the common modes of financial structuring these days is conversion of loans into equity shares. The said option not only results in significant interest cost savings but also elevates the financial position for attracting new investments.
Cross-border share sale – Eligibility for Tax Treaty benefit
The article seeks to examine the question as to whether treaty benefits should at all be provided if the non-resident seller of shares does not have much commercial substance. Analysing how Courts in different countries have applied GAAR in tax treaty issues and what Courts in India have held applying judicial anti-avoidance test prior to GAAR, the authors opine that there is a lot of uncertainty surrounding the applicability of anti-abuse rules to cross border share acquisitions.
Navigating limitation period labyrinth – Pitfalls in timelines of passing assessment orders under Section 144C read with Section 153
The Bombay HC has held that timelines for passing an assessment order specified in Section 153 of the Income Tax Act, 1961 are not to be extended in cases where the assessee takes the DRP route and the final assessment order under s.144C(13) has to be passed within the overall timeline prescribed under s.153. Considering that the general practice followed by the tax officers is to pass only the draft orders within the timelines, the article highlights the impact of this decision.
Change of opinion: Whether permissible under the new provisions of reassessment?
The Finance Act, 2021 substituted the provisions of reassessment under the Income-tax Act, 1961. Under the new reassessment provisions, the concept of ‘reason to believe’ has been substituted with ‘information’ which suggests that the income has escaped assessment. The article discusses the question as to whether such ‘information’ is required to be tested against the concept of ‘change of opinion’, as was required under the old reassessment provisions.
Impact analysis of the Supreme Court decision in Saraf Exports v. CIT: Worth the wager?
The article discusses a recent decision of the Supreme Court in the case of Saraf Exports v. CIT, wherein the Apex Court has held that export incentives like Duty Drawback and DEPB will not qualify as first-degree nexus for the purposes of claim of deduction under Section 80-IB of the Income Tax Act, 1961. The decision has also reiterated the principle laid down earlier that restrictive meaning must be given to the expression ‘derived from’.
Deemed application provision causes uncertainties for donation aggregators
Charitable entities set up for different charitable causes such as education, yoga, relief of poor, medical relief, advancement of any general public utility etc., receive a tax-exempt status under Section 10(23C) and Section 11 of the Income-tax Act, 1961 (‘Act’). As per Section 11 of the Act, the trusts or charitable institutions are subject to following conditions to obtain tax exemption:
Navigating the exemption labyrinth – Pitfalls in the way of charitable institutes
Considering the changing landscape of the exemption regime, right from Finance Act, 2014 till the recent Finance Act, 2023, the article notes that the provisions relating to the exemption regimes under Sections 10(23C) and 11 of the Income Tax Act have undergone wide-ranging changes having an impact on nearly every aspect associated with the operation of charitable institutes, resulting in a situation where a mere procedural lapse can have far reaching consequences.
Tax on ‘Cash’ benefits and perquisites – Applicability on waiver of debts
Amongst various tax amendment proposals announced this year, proposal for taxing ‘cash’ benefits and perquisites is likely to have a wide-reaching impact on the taxpayers, especially in the context of waiver of debts due from a corporate debtor. More than the corporate debtor, the amendment may prove to be burdensome for the lender waiving such debts due to withholding tax liability imposed upon such lender. The article aims to discuss the proposed amendment and its impact.
Taxation of unexempt income of Public Charitable Trusts
Income derived from Trust property has been exempt under Income-tax laws since the Act of 1886. Tracing the legislative history in respect of income from property held under trust, the author examines amendments made by Finance Act, 1970; Taxation Laws (Amendment) Act, 1975; Finance Act, 1983; and Finance Act, 2022, the author concludes that the present iteration of Section 13(1)(c) / Section 13(1)(d) makes it evident that ...
Penalty under Sections 221 & 271C for non-deduction/ short deduction of tax at source
The article deals with a peculiar issue of simultaneous applicability of two penal provisions being Sections 221 and 271C of the Income Tax Act, 1961, which may be fastened on the assessee for non-deduction/ short deduction of tax at source. The authors for this purpose consider the relevant provisions, applicability of Rule of Double Jeopardy and various judicial precedents on applicability of two penalty provisions for the short deduction of TDS.
Normal and substantial profits – A new yardstick for charitable purpose
The charitable trusts/institutions enjoy substantial income-tax benefits and hence are often subject to detailed scrutiny to ensure that commercial concerns are kept outside the boundaries of the tax-exempt status. Tracing the evolution of the definition of charitable purpose and its judicial interpretation, the article explains the recent decision of the Supreme Court in the case of Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority. According to the authors...
Benefit of Most Favoured Nation clause for dividend income of non-resident – Interesting battle to watch out for before Apex Court
In the tax treaties entered by India with countries such as Netherlands, France, Swiss Confederation, and Sweden, India has agreed for Most Favoured Nation clause (‘MFN clause’) with the treaty Partner. The MFN clause finds presence in the protocol to the tax treaty, which forms an integral part of the tax treaty.
The rapid infusion of digitisation into the business has made world one global market. In today’ era, the business transactions extend beyond national boundaries and the businesses are tailored to meet the needs of consumers over wider geographic areas.
Foreign companies’ obligation to file tax return in India
One of the issues of wide interest and contemplation is whether a foreign company is liable to file a return in India when there is income accruing or arising in India but the same is not liable to tax, either because of an exemption under the Income Tax Act, 1961 or on account of the beneficial provisions of the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAA). The article deals with various circumstances...
Supreme Court clarifies on assessment of amalgamated entities
The article examines the rationale and thrust of a recent Supreme Court decision in the case of Mahagun Realtors (P) Ltd., wherein the Apex Court has clarified that an amalgamation would not per se invalidate an assessment order issued in the name of the transferor company. Discussing the facts of the case, the authors elaborate on the findings of the Court that notice issued in name of amalgamated entity is not always fatal to the proceedings
Violation of Section 13 of the Income Tax Act – Denial of entire exemption vs. partial exemption
The Income Tax Act, 1961 (‘IT Act’) provides for various benefits for trusts which are established for charitable or religious purposes and registered under the IT Act. Sections 11 and 12 of the IT Act are the substantive provisions for exemptions available to religious and charitable trusts.
Deduction under 10AA – Benefit available even after sunset date?
Special Economic Zones (‘SEZ’) were introduced with an intent to drive economic growth along with quality infrastructure complemented by attractive fiscal package. Initially introduced in the form of SEZ Policy in 2000, the scheme was subsequently formalised in the form of SEZ Act, 2005 (‘SEZ Act’).
The Government Giveth and the Government Taketh Away: Charitable Institutions satisfied but facing accounting complexities
The year 2022 has witnessed major changes in exemption regimes available to charitable institutions under the Income-tax Act, 1961 (‘IT Act’). Through these changes, while the Government has seemingly decayed one issue faced by charitable institutions, it has also given birth to a new one. The following paragraphs will discuss both these issues and analyze the Jekyll and Hyde nature of the amendments of 2022.
Apex Laboratories: A bitter pill to swallow for the healthcare sector?
A contentious issue that has seen much litigation in the recent past is regarding the claim of expenditure under Section 37 of the Income-tax Act, 1961 (‘IT Act’) incurred by pharmaceutical companies on gifting of freebies to doctors.
Crypto taxation in the Finance Act, 2022: The Indian conundrum
In November 2021, the government floated the idea that it was going to introduce ‘The Cryptocurrency and Regulation of Official Digital Currency Bill, 2021’, to lay down a framework for regulating transactions involving cryptocurrency.
Disallowance under Section 14A proposed even in absence of exempt income: Tax net tightened in Budget 2022?
Finance Bill, 2022 has brought in certain amendments with an intent to augment revenue and one such amendment is fetched into Section 14A of the Income-tax Act, 1961 (‘Act’).
Taxing of crypto gains – Ushering in a new era of regulation
The proposed taxation regime and the requirements under the Companies Act, 2013 are in line with the updated guidance for virtual assets issued by Financial Action Task Force, an inter-governmental organisation in October 2021. Elaborating on the new tax regime, the author also deliberates upon how different countries across the world are regulating and taxing crypto currency transactions.
Dilemma of formation by reconstruction or splitting-up of existing business – A deterrent to income-tax benefits?
The legislature has time and again introduced various income-tax benefits and incentives to encourage fresh investments and stimulate the economic growth. These incentives are generally given to new businesses in form of tax holidays, concessional tax rates or additional deductions.
Reassessment notices issued under old regime – An attempt to revive a dead law?
The Covid-19 pandemic severely impacted the functionality of both government and citizens right from early 2020. Due to lockdowns and other preventive measures announced by the Government of India (‘GOI’), both taxman and taxpayers were unable to function normally.
Provident funds, for the purpose of the Income Tax Act, 1961 (‘IT Act’) can broadly be classified into three classes. First are Statutory Provident Funds, which are established under the Provident Fund Act, 1925 for employees working in Government or Semi-Government organizations, etc.
Determination of year of taxability for transfers arising out of registered Joint Development Agreements
In recent times, the most preferred mechanism adopted by the land owners to transfer their immovable property has been under a Joint Development Agreement (‘JDA’). This mode is usually preferred by those land owners who want to develop their lands but do not have the requisite expertise to carry out the same. Therefore, they enter into a JDA with a developer for developing and marketing the land parcel to the buyers for a mutual benefit.
CSR Regulations and charitable institutions – Recent developments
With the advent of The Companies Act, 2013 (‘Companies Act’), the corporates were casted with the mandatory Corporate Social Responsibility (‘CSR’) obligation. Section 135 of the Companies Act provides that every company meeting a stipulated threshold shall spend at least 2% of the average net profits earned during the three immediately preceding financial years, towards CSR activities.
Rollback of retro tax: A step in the right direction
In January 2012, the Supreme Court of India gave relief to foreign investors through its landmark decision in Vodafone International Holdings BV v. Union of India (‘Vodafone case’). However, in a matter of months, the ratio laid down by the Supreme Court was rendered infructuous by way of amendments to the Income-tax Act (‘IT Act’), which were given retrospective effect from 1962.
The DTAAs , as per ‘Article 1 – Personal Scope’, applies to those persons who are residents of either of the two country. Article 4 of the DTAA defines the term ‘resident of a contracting state’. Article 4(1) of the OECD Model Convention of 2017 inter-alia provides that the term ‘resident of a contracting state’ means any person under the laws of that state, is liable to tax therein by reason of his domicile, residence, place of management or any other criteria of similar nature.
Capital Gains arising out of Joint Development Agreements – Analysis of Section 45(5A) of Income-tax Act
The transfer of immovable property by land owners under mechanism of Joint development, Agreement (‘JDA’) has evolved as a preferred mode of transacting, especially in urban areas where the land owners do not have the time or expertise to develop the land and market the property on their own. They, therefore, enter into an arrangement for mutual benefit with a developer for developing and marketing the land parcels to various buyers.
Cess: An allowable expenditure under the Income-tax Act?
It is a settled principle statutorily that the income tax paid by a taxpayer on its income is not allowed as a deductible expenditure under the provisions of the Income-Tax Act, 1961 (‘Act’). The term ‘income-tax’ has not been defined under the provisions of the Act, however, the term ‘tax’ has been defined to mean income-tax chargeable under the provisions of the Act. Section 4 of the Act creates a charge of tax on the total income of the previous year of a person.
Managing the impact of Covid-19 – Navigating cross-border tax questions in India
The Covid-19 pandemic has exposed catastrophic outcomes. The limited experience of handling such a crisis in India has already revealed its overbearing effect on business and industry, while the tax landscape has also faced significant transformation. In an interconnected world, some of the issues that have arisen in the context of cross-border taxation have created concern, with the potential of leading to far-reaching implications. Some of these issues are considered in detail in this article.
Redesigned taxation upon exit from Partnership Firm – New jeopardy for taxpayers?
Taxation upon exit of a partner from a partnership firm has been a contentious issue since long. Till Financial Year 1987-88, distribution of capital assets on dissolution of partnership firm was specifically excluded from capital gain taxation. Resultantly, as a tax planning exercise, taxpayers used to convert partnership assets into individual assets either upon retirement or dissolution, contending that no capital gains tax was payable in relation to the same.
Tribunal’s power to grant stay: The case of Pepsi Foods
In the current bureaucratic setup of taxation systems in India, the right to appeal is an important right. The right of appeal against the Orders by the Income Tax authorities under the Income Tax Act, 1961 (‘Act’) has been expressly conferred on the taxpayers. In disposing of these appeals, the appellate authorities have inherent power to grant stay against the tax demands raised by Income Tax officers.
Goodwill no more an intangible asset – Some interesting issues
Analyzing the amendments proposed by the Finance Bill, 2021 to undo the benefit pertaining to depreciation on goodwill, the article discusses some interesting issues like applicability of the amendments to business re-organizations concluded prior to 1 April 2021, impact on existing litigation and that whether transactions can be concluded by recognizing other intangibles? According to the author, it is necessary for the business to revisit the positions already taken to avoid such litigation.
The first permanent statute for imposing regular income-tax in India was enacted in 1886 and since then, agricultural income has been exempted from levy of income-tax in India. While the exemption granted to agricultural income from income-tax in 1886 continues even today, the rationale for extending such exemption in 1886 seems to be no longer relevant.
The article discusses the recently introduced Faceless Penalty Scheme, 2021 effective from 12 January 2021. The authors highlight various salient features of the Scheme like, authentication and delivery of electronic record, absence of physical interface between the assessee and revenue authorities, team-based proceedings and dynamic jurisdiction, etc., while also elaborating on the procedure to be followed in penalty proceedings and in proceedings for rectification.
Dividend payments to non-residents – DTAA relief on the horizon?
The article discusses at length the recent decision of the ITAT Delhi in the case of Giesecke & Devrient [India] Pvt Ltd. v. Addl. CIT. The decision provides a major relief to the taxpayers on the rate of tax applicable on dividends paid by an Indian company to its overseas parent. The ITAT has held that tax rates specified in the DTAA in respect of dividend must prevail over the rate provided under Section 115-O of the Income Tax Act, 1961 for Dividend Distribution Tax.
Compulsorily Convertible Debentures: Debt or Equity?
Compulsorily Convertible Debentures (‘CCDs’) are hybrid instruments, being debt at the time of issue along with a certainty to get converted into equity. Since the guidelines on FDI treat CCDs as equity for the purposes of reporting to the RBI, a question arises as to whether they are to be regarded as equity capital under all other laws as well. The article discusses the question from the perspective of income-tax law, observing that the return on debt and equity have distinct treatment.
The article discusses at length the question as to whether ‘slump exchange’ is covered by the provisions of Section 50B of the Income Tax Act, 1961. According to the authors, the question that arises is whether only transfer as a result of ‘sale’ would be covered by the provisions of Section 50B or whether slump sale includes other forms of ‘transfer’ as well as defined in Section 2(47). Another issue that comes to light is whether transfer for non-monetary consideration can constitute a sale.
Equalisation levy on non-resident e-commerce facilitators – Analysing ‘amount’ for tax
The article discusses at length a peculiar issue relating to Equalisation levy on non-resident e-commerce facilitators, regarding the amount on which the such e-commerce facilitators should charge such levy. Analysing the question as to whether the ecommerce operator should calculate the levy on the entire sale value of the goods/services or only on the commission amount, the author observes that the provisions do not provide a clear answer.
Sub-section (1H) introduced in Section 206 of the Income-tax Act, 1961 by the Finance Act, 2020, seeks to extend the ambit of Tax Collection at Source (‘TCS’) to consideration received from sale of goods. The article seeks to address certain practical issues that would be faced by tax payers in following the law effective from 1-10-2020. It discusses that the meaning of ‘goods’ must be derived from the Sale of Goods.
Doctrine of Merger and its application to orders passed under Income Tax Act, 1961
Doctrine of Merger is not applicable in all scenarios and to all the orders passed under the Income Tax Act. The Courts have been playing a vital role by applying this doctrine on case to case basis to determine whether or not the powers under Section 263 and 154 have been exercised within the time limits prescribed and also in certain cases to determine if the appeals have been filed within the condonable period.
Proviso to Section 115BAA(3) – Sowing confusion or certainty?
The article addresses an issue that may arise regarding the treatment of unclaimed portion of additional depreciation in respect of companies with substantial capital expansion in the relevant AY while opting for Section 115BAA of the Income Tax Act relating to reduced corporate taxation scheme.
Virtual Hearing: An effective alternative to in-person hearing?
Covid-19 has been affecting every sphere of our lives for the past many months and it is evident that the same would continue for the next few months, to say the least. Amongst others, judicial system in India has seen immense pressure to adapt to the existing circumstances posed by the pandemic and provide a redressal platform for the existing and future litigation.
Tax exemption to Sovereign Wealth Funds – Whether taxable at all?
The issue of taxation of foreign Sovereigns in India, does not spring up very often. The principle that a Sovereign is immune from taxation laws, has evolved over the centuries. With the Union Budget, 2020 proposing an exemption to Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWFs) in respect of certain income earned from India, the issue as to whether such entities are subject to tax in the first place has been reignited.
Is Section 132(4A) a free getaway pass for the assessees
Search under Section 132 of the Income-tax Act, 1961 (“IT Act”) is conducted to unearth cases of assessees with undisclosed income and is always considered as invasion of privacy by the assessees on whom it is conducted. The assessees also fear search because information found during search will not only affect that assessment year but would also empower Authorities to conduct Assessment/Reassessment proceedings for preceding six years.
Equalization Levy - An approach to implement Digital Taxation Policy by India
Business environment has undergone a drastic change i.e. from the traditional ‘physical system’ to the modern ‘digital system’. With user/ consumer facing countries devising measures to tax digital businesses, the International tax landscape is certainly undergoing a renovation.
Implications of the General Motors Overseas Corporation case
The recent decision of the Mumbai Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (“ITAT”) in the General Motors Overseas Corporation case has laid new ground in the law relating to secondments. In this update, we shall discuss the facts of the case, arguments raised before the ITAT and the implications of the decision.
Dissecting Section 80M of the Income Tax Act - The known and the unknown
The Finance Bill 2020 (referred to as the ‘Bill’) proposed plethora of amendments in the Income Tax Act, 1961 (referred to as the ‘Act’) on different aspects. One such amendment was to relieve corporates from paying distribution tax on dividends (‘DDT’) and going back to the old school ways of taxing such dividends in the hands of the shareholders.
Benami law and retrospectivity - Analysis of Rajasthan High Court decision in Niharika Jain v. Union of India
New-age laws that seek to remedy economic wrongs are interesting. Economic wrongs could be civil or criminal in character. Clearly, any person who cheats and deprives people of their property is an offender and is a threat to the society at large. He needs to be dealt with through a criminal law. However, another person who breaches a contractual obligation would need to cough up damages and a civil law would be apt and sufficient to deal with this private matter.
Tax laws seeking to regulate NBFCs whether resulting in unintended hardships?
Being regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (‘RBI’), Banks and Non-Banking Finance Companies (‘NBFC’) are required to follow the norms for asset classification, income recognition and provisioning laid down by the Central Bank. The regulations require every NBFC to categorize assets into different buckets and create provisions for bad and doubtful debts at specified percentages.
Applicability of Doctrine of Merger between intimation under Section 143(1) and assessment order under Section 143(3)
The article in this issue of Direct Tax Amicus discusses the issue of whether an intimation under Section 143(1) of the Income Tax Act, 1961 will automatically merge with an assessment order under Section 143(3). Considering various decisions of the ITAT, the authors note that it can be inferred that a strait jacket formula cannot be adopted for applying the Doctrine of Merger.
Flew too close to the Sun: The impact of abolishment of Angel Tax in India
The article discusses the recent abolition of Angel Tax. According to the authors, if the tax officers don’t show restraint in taxing the capital investment, the intended relief may not come and the tax bills may just increase due to high tax rates.
In India, there is no legislation as such that defines an ‘economic offence’. Economic offences encompass all crimes which occur during the course of any economic or business activity.
The article discusses laws relating to termination of employees and workmen, in India. It in this regard summarises various requirements under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947 and the Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, 1946, and notes that the notice and payment of service compensation as provided under the state-specific shops and establishment acts (which differ from State to State) must also be complied with by the employers for terminating employees.
The article notes that due to subjective nature of the investigations under consideration, there is no set mechanism or strict procedure which needs to be adhered to, for conducting such investigations. The authors however discuss the broad guidelines related to requisition, review and questionnaire, investigation interviews, transcripts, and preparing the investigation report, which aid the investigation team and are to be read along with the internal policies of the concerned organization.
Supreme Court upholds 2014 amendment of Pension Scheme with certain caveats
The Supreme Court on 4 November 2022, upheld the constitutional validity of certain amendments made to the Employees’ Pension Scheme (‘EPS’) by way of the Employees' Pension (Amendment) Scheme, 2014 (‘Amendment Scheme’). This much-awaited ruling in the matter of Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation & Another v. Sunil Kumar B. and Others will impact thousands of working individuals and make the EPS more viable.
Contract labour under the new regime – An Overview
Under the Constitution of India, ‘labour’ is a subject matter of the concurrent list. Therefore, both Central and State Governments have the power to enact labour and employment legislations. This has frequently resulted in legal quagmires because of numerous laws being enacted having overlapping provisions and governing similar subject matters relating to labour and employment.
Contract labour – New dynamics under new Labour Code
In the recent past, the engagement of contract labour has witnessed a spike across various sectors, both in the manufacturing as well as service sectors. Presently, the framework of the contract labour is regulated by Contract Labour (Regulation and Abolition) Act, 1970 (‘CLRA Act’). This may continue for one more year, as implementation of new Labour Codes may get delayed due to the massive second wave of Covid-19 across the country.
Definition of ‘Wages’ – Confusion worse confounded
The National Commission on Labour (‘NLC’), in its vast Report submitted in the year 2002, acknowledged the need to have separate definitions of the two terms ‘wages’ and ‘remuneration’, to avoid endless litigation. It proposed to include only basic wages and dearness allowance under ‘wages’, and all other payments including other allowances as well as overtime payment together with wages under ‘remuneration’.
The Second National Commission on Labour Laws, which submitted its report in June 2002 had recommended that the existing set of labour laws should be broadly divided and grouped into the four groups. Acting on the recommendations, the Union Government has proposed to enact four labour codes, subsuming 29 labour law legislations. The Code on Wages, 2019 (‘Wage Code’) is the first of the lot to get the legislative approval and subsequently, the assent of the President of India on August 8, 2019.
The Industrial Relations Code, 2020 (“IRC 20”) has been introduced as a part of the labour legislations consolidations, in terms of the recommendation of the Second National Commission on Labour (2002). Accepting their recommendations, the Ministry of Labour and Employment has consolidated labour code in to four labour codes of (i) Industrial Relations (ii) Wages (iii) Social Security (iv) Welfare and Safety.
• The purpose of Code on Social Security, 2020 (‘SS Code’) is to amend and consolidate the laws relating to social security with the goal to extend social security to all employees and workers either in the organized or unorganized or any other sectors and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.
Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 – An overview
Pursuant to the recommendations of Second National Commission on Labour, the Ministry of Labour and Employment had introduced the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 (‘OSHW’) Code in the Lok Sabha in order to consolidate and amend the laws regulating the occupational safety, health and working conditions of the persons employed in an establishment.
Coronavirus, which originated from the Wuhan district of China, has been declared as a health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization on January 30, 2020. The outbreak of the novel Coronavirus Disease (“COVID-19”) has transcended geographical barriers and already sickened approximately 15,00,00 people, with more than 85,000 deaths across the globe.
Applicability of Doctrine of Merger between intimation under Section 143(1) and assessment order under Section 143(3)
The article in this issue of Direct Tax Amicus discusses the issue of whether an intimation under Section 143(1) of the Income Tax Act, 1961 will automatically merge with an assessment order under Section 143(3). Considering various decisions of the ITAT, the authors note that it can be inferred that a strait jacket formula cannot be adopted for applying the Doctrine of Merger.
Fast Track Merger: Regional Director does not have power to reject the Scheme
The article provides a detailed discussion of a recent Bombay High Court decision in Asset Auto v. UoI, which reviews the discretionary power provided to the Regional Director of the central Government in respect of fast-track mergers provided under Section 233 of the Companies Act, 2013. According to the High Court, the Regional Director does not have the power to outrightly reject the scheme.
Anti-Dilution – Balancing the ills of a Down Round
The article discusses the anti-dilution rights which is the most common armour provided to investors against a down round funding raised by any company. These can be exercised in two ways - the first being full ratchet anti-dilution protection while the second is weighted average method of computation.
Comparative analysis: Navigating RBI’s Draft Trade Regulations and Directions
The article covers major changes that are proposed to be implemented upon the final release of the Foreign Exchange Management (Export and Import of Goods and Services) Regulations, 2024 and the draft direction on export of goods and services. The Reserve Bank of India has invited public comments and feedback on the Draft Trade Regulations and Draft Trade Directions by 1 September 2024.
Navigating Merchanting Trade Transactions in a changing regulatory landscape
The article discusses draft Foreign Exchange Management (Export and Import of Goods and Services) Regulations, 2024 and draft Directions to Authorised Dealers on Export and Import of Goods and Services, in respect of Merchanting Trade Transaction, and points out various ambiguities.
Analysing Budget 2024 from the lens of Ease of Doing Business
The article analyses the Budget proposals and discusses changes relating to attracting foreign investments, benefits proposed in tax regime, evolution in insolvency resolution, flexible company structures, credit enhancement to MSMEs, easy exits to companies, decriminalisation of offences, and proposal to incentivize states if they lower the stamp duty rates.
RoC’s recent adjudication order against a global corporate – A regulatory oversight on Significant Beneficial Ownership
Recently, the Registrar of Companies, NCT of Delhi & Haryana imposed penalties against a global corporate and its Directors along with its Global CEO, including CEO of the holding company, for violating the provisions related to non-disclosure of Significant Beneficial Ownership (‘SBO’) under Section 90 of the Companies Act, 2013. The article analyses the jurisprudence behind the SBO and the RoC’s approach towards the Order.
International Workers – Conundrum of payment of Provident Fund
The recent judicial developments have led to certain legal uncertainties and contradictions for compliance in case of deputation and secondment. According to the authors, the factual matrix of employment will have to be determined based on legal jurisprudence.
Adjudication of penalties by Registrar of Companies: Scope and its ambit
The ‘Registrar’ of Companies (‘RoC’) under the Companies Act, 2013 (‘Act’) is entrusted with the duty to register the companies in India and to discharge various functions under the Act, one of them being to adjudicate penalties in accordance with Section 454 of the Act
Company Secretary whether liable for misleading financial information given by a company
In V. Shankar v. SEBI , the company secretary (CS) of Deccan Chronicle Holding Limited (‘DCHL’) was absolved by Securities Appellate Tribunal (‘SAT’), Mumbai, from the liability imposed by the Adjudicating Officer (‘AO’) of Securities Exchange Board of India (‘SEBI’) on DCHL for misleading financial statements and information given by the DCHL.
Supreme Court upholds 2014 amendment of Pension Scheme with certain caveats
The Supreme Court on 4 November 2022, upheld the constitutional validity of certain amendments made to the Employees’ Pension Scheme (‘EPS’) by way of the Employees' Pension (Amendment) Scheme, 2014 (‘Amendment Scheme’). This much-awaited ruling in the matter of Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation & Another v. Sunil Kumar B. and Others will impact thousands of working individuals and make the EPS more viable.
Securities Market Regulator, SEBI, on 5 May 2021, made it mandatory for the top 1,000 listed entities (by market capitalization calculated as on the 31st day of March of every financial year) to provide annually a Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report (BRSR) from the financial year 2022-23.
Taxing of crypto gains – Ushering in a new era of regulation
The proposed taxation regime and the requirements under the Companies Act, 2013 are in line with the updated guidance for virtual assets issued by Financial Action Task Force, an inter-governmental organisation in October 2021. Elaborating on the new tax regime, the author also deliberates upon how different countries across the world are regulating and taxing crypto currency transactions.
Dilemma of formation by reconstruction or splitting-up of existing business – A deterrent to income-tax benefits?
The legislature has time and again introduced various income-tax benefits and incentives to encourage fresh investments and stimulate the economic growth. These incentives are generally given to new businesses in form of tax holidays, concessional tax rates or additional deductions.
Special Purpose Acquisition Companies (SPACs): Are we ready to launch the spac-ship?
Although the inception of modern Special Purpose Acquisition Companies (‘SPACs’) started in the United States in the early 1990s, the recent spike in this phenomenon has undoubtedly taken the markets by storm. A current favourite for companies intending to go public is by way of SPACs. They are commonly referred to as ‘blank cheque entities’ or ‘shell companies’ because they raise capital from an initial public offering (‘IPO’) to acquire an unspecified operating business.
CSR Regulations and charitable institutions – Recent developments
With the advent of The Companies Act, 2013 (‘Companies Act’), the corporates were casted with the mandatory Corporate Social Responsibility (‘CSR’) obligation. Section 135 of the Companies Act provides that every company meeting a stipulated threshold shall spend at least 2% of the average net profits earned during the three immediately preceding financial years, towards CSR activities.
Status of registration for arbitration under MSME Act, 2006
Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (‘MSMEs’) are considered as the engine of economic growth. With the object of facilitating promotion, development and enhancing the competitiveness of MSMEs, the Indian Parliament enacted The Micro Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act (‘Act’) in 2006. One of the key provisions of the Act is that it provides a forum and mechanism for speedy recovery of delayed payments to micro and small enterprises.
Introduction of the ‘On-going Projects’ regime under CSR – A Welcome Move
Though the primary objective of Corporate Social Responsibility (‘CSR’) was not slated to be to bridge resource gap for the Government, the second wave of the pandemic Covid-19 has once again brought back into light the participation of Corporate India in supplementing the efforts of the Government.
Extension of limitation by Apex Court due to second wave of Covid-19
The sudden onset of the pandemic Covid-19 in March 2020 had pushed litigants across the country into hardships with respect to the filing of petitions/ suits/ appeals/ applications etcetera and initiating and continuing legal proceedings before the various Courts and Tribunals.
The article highlights the recently introduced Startup India Seed Fund Scheme for providing financial assistance to startups and the measures taken by the SEBI under the Innovators Growth Platform (‘IGP’) framework. A recent amendment in the Companies (Compromises, Arrangements and Amalgamations) Rules by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, further simplifying the restructuring avenue for startups, also forms part of this article.
Policy changes to the Corporate Social Responsibility mandate
The introduction of Companies (Amendment) Act, 2020 is the second attempt to decriminalize various offences, the first one being the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2019. The article discusses at length the various amendments made by the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2020 related to the Corporate Social Responsibility (‘CSR’) mandate, and their implications. It analyses issues like carry forward of excess spend, penalty for non-compliance and new thresholds for formation of CSR Committee.
Understanding cross border social security obligations
The article notes that many countries with which India has SSAs have clarified that the work from home scenarios arising out of COVID-19 would not be considered for determining the eligibility of payment of social security obligations, but in the absence of any clarification from Employees Provident Fund Organisation, there exists an ambiguity on the status of foreign workers who are currently working remotely from their home country.
Corporate Social Responsibility and implementation agencies
The article discusses at length the recently released draft Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Amendment Rules, 2020. According to the authors, the Draft Rules are a ray of hope in regulating implementation agencies and ensuring a greater transparency by formulating the registration process.
Electronic execution of contracts in the time of pandemic COVID-19
As held by the Courts in catena of judgements, e-contracts are valid and enforceable under the laws of India. India has been and will be witnessing a surge in the execution of contracts electronically. Now, due to COVID-19, execution of contracts electronically has become inevitable. Considering the ease of execution coupled with the enforceability, there is an increased recognition for these forms of execution.
Government Nod must for FDI from bordering countries
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Government of India (“DPIIT”) had vide press note 3 of 2020 dated April 17, 2020 (“Press Note 3”) amended the extant foreign direct investment (FDI) policy dated August 28, 2017. As per Press Note 3, the amendment was introduced with an aim to curb opportunistic takeovers of Indian companies by persons or entities (directly or indirectly) of any country which shares a land border with India (“Bordering Country”) during difficult times.
FDI Policy revised to curb opportunistic takeovers
The extant COVID-19 pandemic has been plaguing individuals and industries alike. The Government of India has, with a view to curb opportunistic takeovers/acquisitions of Indian companies due to the COVID-19 pandemic, reviewed and revised the extant foreign direct investment (“FDI”) policy dated August 28, 2017 (“FDI Policy”), issued by the Department for Promotions of Industry and Internal Trade (“DPIIT”) vide press note 3 of 2020 dated April 17, 2020.
Upon representations by various stakeholders and in the interest of all companies, the Ministry of Corporate Aairs (“MCA”) recently came out with the Companies Fresh Start Scheme, 2020. The purpose of the said scheme is to condone the delay in filing of documents and provide a one-time waiver to companies from prosecution and imposition of additional fee, in order to enable such companies to file all their documents.
Upon representations by various stakeholders and in the interest of all limited liability partnerships (“LLPs”), the Ministry of Corporate Aairs (“MCA”) recently came out with the LLP Settlement Scheme 2020. The purpose of the scheme is to condone the delay in filing of documents and provide a one-time waiver to LLPs from prosecution and imposition of additional fee, in order to enable LLPs to file all their documents.
Revisiting Contractual Theory and Obligations in the Times of COVID-19
Amongst other objectives, contracts are about the allocation of risksbetween contracting parties. Risks that may hinder or absolutely obviate the possibility performance are therefore addressed, either by parties themselves in the contract, or by the legal rule of frustration of contracts.
COVID-19: Statutory and Regulatory Updates for Companies
On March 24, 2020, the Finance Minister announced several relief measures across sectors, relating to Statutory and Regulatory compliance matters, in view of the COVID-19 outbreak in the country. The main relief measures have been detailed below, along with their implications for businesses.
Independent Directors and mandate of online proficiency test: Approbation or mere disdain?
With the objective of thriving good corporate governance, Ministry of Corporate Affairs (“MCA”) on October 22, 2019 notified the Companies (Creation and Maintenance of databank of Independent Directors) Rules, 2019 (“Databank Rules”) in exercise of the powers conferred upon it by Sections 150 and 469 of the Companies Act, 2013 (“CA 2013”).
Section 11A of the CGST Act: Old wine in new bottle?
This article examines the need and scope of the new Section 11A as proposed by the Finance (No. 2) Bill, 2024, and the potential challenges foreseeable by insertion of said provision in the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017.
Taxability of Extra Neutral Alcohol settled or not?
The article discusses the taxability of Extra Neutral Alcohol/rectified spirit (‘ ENA ’), a denatured alcohol that is predominantly used as a raw material for manufacturing of liquor for human consumption that has been a bone of dispute between the Centre and the States.
53rd GST Council Meeting set to convene: What is on the horizon?
In this article, the authors discuss the issues which are likely in the pipeline for upcoming GST council meetings, particularly the 53rd GST Council Meeting.
Development Rights: A service or a condition precedent to sale of land
The divergent perspectives on the treatment of development rights; whether as a service or an outright sale, have led to confusion in the realm of land transactions. Therefore, while finality is anticipated from the constitutional courts in GST regime, it is prudent for businesses to take an informed call on the taxability of development rights.
Is the difference between Tax and Fees obliterated?
The article discusses the difference between Tax and Fees and how the Courts in recent time are diverting from the earlier decisions highlighting the difference between Tax and Fees.
The ever-evolving advertising industry: Is GST ready for the same?
The article highlights that one needs to examine whether sports marketing is in the nature of ‘advertisement/sale of advertising space and time service’ or ‘sponsorship service’. According to the authors, considering the overlapping nature of advertisement and sponsorship services, taxing advertisement under forward charge and allowing full ITC of the expenses, while taxing sponsorship under reverse charge and disallowing credit of GST, is creating an artificial discrimination.
Secondment or employment: Court’s observation opens new opportunities for tax risk mitigation in 2024
The article discusses the observation of the Supreme Court in Northern Operating Systems case, recent investigations on the issue, CBIC Instruction, interim orders passed by different High Courts on factual matrix of the cases, legal position under the GST law and the way forward. Elaborating on the test / factors to determine the employee-employer relationship, the article deliberates on application of said tests/factors on the Supreme Court decision, and the factual differentiation of case.
Tax relief on Grants: Not to be taken for grant-ed!
The article notes that given the voluntary and unilateral nature of a grant, there exists ambiguity whether provision of a grant qualifies to be a taxable supply under the GST law, as to qualify as a supply it is essential that a good or service is provided for a consideration. The authors observe that it needs to be examined on case-to-case basis, whether the provision of the grant in a particular arrangement has its strings attached to the service provided and the consideration paid.
The equivocal nature of the advisory regarding Input Tax Credit (ITC) reversal under Rule 37(A)
The article discusses the conflicting nature of a recent Advisory issued by the GSTN in respect of ITC reversal on account of new CGST Rule 37(A). The authors in this regard discuss various ambiguities surrounding this Advisory, like the period to be considered for computation of amount of ITC to be reversed, whether data of GSTR 2A or GSTR 2B is to be considered, etc. According to them, there is a requirement of detailed guidelines.
Classification of goods under the correct tariff item is the first and the most litigative issue in any tax jurisdiction. The article hence analyses the implications of a Madras HC decision which has held that flavored milk is classifiable under Heading 0402 and not under Heading 2202 covering beverage containing milk. Deliberating on the reasoning of the High Court and the relevance of this decision, the authors highlight various issues which need to be understood by the industry.
Competency and powers for VAT amendments in GST regime
The article discusses the recent decision of the Supreme Court holding that the amendments to Telangana VAT Act, Gujarat VAT Act and Maharashtra VAT Act, after 1 July 2017, were not correct. It notes that the impact of the Court’s observations on competency of the State legislature for VAT amendments and introduction of VAT Amnesty Schemes by the States, is an interesting academic issue to explore. According to the authors, the observations of the Court will have an impact on levying VAT on..
A tale of tax technology and GST matching woes: Balancing idealism and pragmatism
The article discusses the problem of absence of mechanism for matching Input Tax Credit (‘ITC’). It analyses a recent Rajasthan High Court decision in the case of Hindustan Lever Ltd., where the practicality of this matching exercise has come into question and observes that while on one hand, requiring suppliers to collect certificates or proof from recipients may lead to administrative inefficiencies, on the other hand, allowing businesses to claim reductions in tax liability...
The article revolves around the recommendation of the 50th Meeting of the GST Council and the clarification brought in by the CBIC Circular No. 199/2023-GST, dated 17 July 2023 with respect to distribution of credit through Input Service Distributor (‘ISD’). Noting that the Circular has put at rest many disputes surrounding the issue, the authors highlight some open issues which need to be addressed in view of the proposed amendment in law to make the ISD registration mandatory.
Key issues impacting the pharmaceutical sector – Classification, human resources & investigations
Indian Pharmaceutical Industry plays a prominent role in the Global Pharma Ecosystem. It is the world's largest provider of generic medicines by volume and is also the largest vaccine supplier in the world. The value of this sector is expected to reach USD 65 billion by 2024. Indian pharmaceutical products are exported to various overseas markets including the US, UK, European Union, etc.
Key issues impacting the Pharmaceutical Sector – Quandaries for the Industry
The pharmaceutical sector in India plays a seminal position in the domestic and international economy. It provides more than 50 per cent of global demand for several vaccines, 40 percent of generic demand in the US and 25 percent of all medicines in UK. The value of this sector has been estimated at $42 billion in 2021, and it is expected to reach $65 billion by 2024 .
Export and global operation: Challenges Faced by Indian Pharma Industry
In this article, the authors discuss key challenges faced by the pharma industry in GST which may affect the industry in their global operations and exports, imports and refunds, which are aside from the issues being faced in marketing and supply chain, procurement and input tax credit, etc, covered separately here.
The article seeks to analyse the GST implications on leasing of capital goods between ‘distinct persons’, in the light of a recent ruling of the Maharashtra Appellate Authority of Advance Ruling. After providing the crisp summary of the Ruling, the article examines the implication of the Ruling in respect of issues regarding valuation, mere movement of goods not amounting to supply, and documentation.
The article discusses a recent decision of the Larger Bench of the CESTAT which settles, in favour of assessee, the issue as to whether Business Auxiliary Services (BAS) provided by Indian agents to foreign entities qualify as export of services under the service tax regime. The article in this regard also analyses whether this decision of the Larger Bench will have any impact in the GST regime.
Eligibility of Input Tax Credit vis-à-vis inherent loss of inputs during manufacture
The Madras High Court recently in the case of Eastman Exports Global Clothing, settled an interesting question of law pertaining to the reversal of Input Tax Credit on the loss of inputs which is inherent to the process of manufacturing. Although the judgment pertains to the treatment of manufacturing loss under Section 19(9)(iii) of the Tamil Nadu VAT Act, the principle enunciated by the Court is very helpful in determining the entitlement of ITC vis-à-vis Section 17(5)(h) of the CGST Act.
Withholding Income Tax: Withholding the ambiguity in GST Valuation?
The article highlights the intricacies of TDS withholding, under the income tax provisions, which appear to impact the taxable value under GST in case of import of services. The moot question is whether the taxable value for discharging GST should be confined only to the contractual payment qua the foreign service provider or the amount of TDS, paid by the Indian service recipient as additional statutory obligation, should also be added. Analysing various Court and Tribunal decisions, the...
Dry lease of aircrafts under GST: A classification conundrum
The article discusses elaborately the problems of classification and rate of GST in case of dry leasing of an aircraft. In respect of classification, the authors note that there is no specific mention of aircrafts under the Explanatory Notes to sub-heading 997311 or under the residuary entry 997319, though the Service Code 7311 of the UNCPC provides for transport equipment and specifically includes aircrafts. For rate of tax, the authors note that though it can be argued...
Classification of indigenous ‘Rab’ prepared from sugar cane: The final decision
The issue of classification of the product ‘Rab’ (semi-solid sugarcane juice) and applicable rate of tax on its supply has been a subject matter of dispute for a long time. The article intends to highlight the divergent practices followed by the industry and analyse if the CBIC Circular No. 189/01/2023-GST, dated 13 January 2023 has resolved the issue in entirety. Elaborately analysing the issues and concerns...
‘Value addition’ in Value Addition Tax: Extension of limitation period
Post introduction of GST, the State Governments of Kerala, Gujarat and Telangana have amended their VAT laws with the objective of enhancing the limitation period in different forms. The said extension of limitation period needs to be tested on the touchstone of the Indian Constitution i.e., whether the States continued to possess ‘power’ under the Constitution to levy and administer VAT with the advent of GST law.
The article discusses the GST liability on arbitral awards. It notes that though the CBIC Circular No. 178/10/2022-GST, dated 3 August 2022 has paved the way in understanding the GST implications on arbitral awards, determination of the nature of the arbitral award, requires analysis of facts surrounding each case and the terms and conditions of the contract entered between the parties as the awarded amount may not necessarily be in the nature of a compensation.
Essentiality Certificates under Customs and GST laws: Need for synchronization
Petroleum is an indispensable commodity for the fulfilment of daily human needs. Not only does the petroleum industry act as a nodal industry for other industries like textile, automobile etc., petroleum has deep-rooted impact on the inflation rate and economic growth of a country.
Government/ PSU procurements – Possible consequences of Supreme Court decision in Bharat Forge
Procurement by Government or Public Sector Undertakings through tenders has been subject to frequent litigations. The article discusses the recent decision of Supreme Court in Bharat Forge Limited which will have widespread implications on the whole procurement process. The Court has held that the supplier is required to enquire and thereafter arrive at a conclusion regarding the relevant HSN Code and the relevant rate of tax applicable to the item. Further, the Apex Court has directed that...
New Rule 88B providing for manner of calculating interest – Susceptible to challenge?
Due to periodical amendments, the provisions relating to levy of interest under GST has been the subject matter of varied interpretations. The issue concerning payment of interest on the gross/net tax liability in case of delayed payment of taxes was the subject matter for our article published in Tax Amicus (May 2022/Issue 131).
Arrest of perpetrators for fraudulent passing and availing ITC in GST – Some issues
Under the Cenvat and Modvat regime as well as under various incentive schemes under the Customs law/FTDRA, there were unscrupulous persons, who created various firms/companies in the name of other individuals, existing or non-existing, for the purposes of undertaking fraudulent paper transactions.
Compensation Cess and sharing of revenue with States – Some points to ponder
On the 5th Anniversary of implementation of GST in India, the article discusses the levy of compensation cess which was initially imposed to compensate the States for their revenue loss due to GST implementation, and which was supposed to expire after 5 years. Elaborately discussing the levy, the article deliberates the background of the recommendation of the GST Council to extend the levy till March 2026. It also notes how the States will not get any compensation after June 2022. The authors.
Interest on delayed payment of tax – The saga continues!
This article concerns Section 50 of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 (‘CGST Act’). Much has been said and done about whether interest is liable to be paid on the gross tax liability in case of delayed payment of taxes.
Discharge of indirect tax liabilities and procedural compliance during intervening period in case of amalgamation/ merger / demerger
The article discusses at length the significance of ‘appointed date’, ‘effective date’ and various clauses of the scheme of amalgamation/ merger/ demerger in the light of indirect tax laws. Elaborating upon the concepts, the author deliberates on a dispute in respect of those transactions which are undertaken between the appointed date and the effective date/till the fresh registration under indirect tax is obtained by the successor in its own name.
(In)voluntary payments made during investigations – Perspectives from Bundl Technologies
One of the common woes of an assessee facing an investigation, under the Central Goods and Service Tax Act, 2017 (‘CGST Act’) is that they are often compelled to make payments during the pendency of the investigation, mostly only to buy peace temporarily.
Westinghouse Saxby Farmer Ltd. – The saga continues
The Supreme Court’s decision in Westinghouse Saxby Farmer Ltd. v. CCE, Calcutta (‘Westinghouse decision’) evoked an intriguing discussion on the classification of ‘relays’ used as part of Railway signalling systems.
Valuation under GST – When price is not the sole consideration for a supply?
Business dynamics requires a company to adopt various models of transactions. The nature and manner of executing such transactions is decided by them considering many business factors.
The textile sector has recently been in news for various good reasons. The Government is leaving no stone unturned in providing conducive ecosystem to explore the textile industry’s competitive and comparative advantage.
Generally, GST is payable on the transaction value which is the price paid or payable for the supply of goods and services when transaction takes place between un-related persons and price is the sole consideration for supply. However, a registered person may at his option, discharge tax on sale of used or second-hand goods on the margin amount which is the difference between selling price and purchase price of the goods.
Intermediary services – Why Circular No. 159 should not be ignored?
After the 45th meeting of GST Council, when Press Release stated that in order to remove ambiguity and legal disputes, Circular will be issued providing clarification(s) on scope of ‘intermediary services’, while some cheered with hope, others did not want to raise their expectations.
Asset distribution on retirement of partners – A transaction with multiple GST issues
The retirement of partners from the partnership firms is a universal phenomenon. Further, it is not an aberrant practice for partnership firms to distribute assets to its partners at the time of retirement. However, with issues cropping up in the GST law, such distribution of assets to the retiring partners is an area of concern.
Deciphering the scope of ‘goods’-A labyrinthine task!
The scope and ambit of ‘goods’ has always been a contentious issue from a taxation perspective. Tax policies in India have witnessed an evolution of diverse taxes levied on the acts of production, manufacture, sale, lease and transfer of ‘goods’. Thus, situations where one has had to contend with the question of whether an article qualifies as ‘goods’ has been rather frequent.
Shifting the burden of indirect taxes: A contract conundrum
Taxes are commonly categorized as ‘direct taxes’ and ‘indirect taxes’ due to the economic theory that indirect taxes are ultimately borne by the consumer despite being charged on the supplier. Simply put, the burden of an indirect tax can be shifted onto another and from this facet, the nomenclature ‘indirect tax’ is derived.
Bill of Supply whether a tax invoice for issuance of GST debit/credit note?
GST as a law has been very dynamic with amendments happening day in and day out as the legislature and the subjects learn from implementing the law to the practical aspects of the business. One of the recent amendments to the law is the amendment to sub-section (4) to Section 16 of the Central Goods & Services Tax Act, 2017 (‘CGST Act’) which was made effective from 1 January 2021.
Improved system of e-way bill and its implications on the business
Implementation of e-way bill system under the Goods and Services Tax regime has been an excruciating exercise for the Government as well as the taxpayers. While Government was initially grappling for timely enforcement of e-way bill system due to inherent constraints in the portal, the taxpayers were finding it difficult to cope up with the frequent amendments in the e-way bill related rules.
Untangled indirect tax web in automotive sector – Whether proposed PLI scheme will do justice?
The automotive industry is a major contributor to the Indian economy. Currently, it is the fourth largest automotive sector in the world and is expected to come under top 3 automotive sectors in the world by 2026. The sector also accounts for about 15% of the country’s total tax collections.
Topsy-turvy state of taxation on distribution of electricity
The article attempts to discuss the dispute on the scope of distribution of electricity services by DISCOMs. The issue was ignited when CBIC issued a circular in 2018 stating that specified services provided by DISCOMs shall attract GST liability. Recently, the Rajasthan High Court relying upon a Gujarat High Court decision has quashed the circular and held that such services are exempted from GST. The article analyses the precise issue and the reasoning given by the High Courts.
Parotta or Roti? Curd or Yogurt? Classifying culinary delights under the Indian GST regime
HSN Classification of a food product is important for determining the GST rate. GST rate impacts pricing decisions of the product and legal declarations on the package.
CGST Rule 96(10) has seen conflicting interpretations, retrospective amendments and challenges. Deliberating on the interpretation of the word ‘person’ used in said rule, the article attempts to answer the question as to whether other registrations of a company, which availed benefit of Advance authorisaiton/EOU scheme in one registration, become ineligible to claim IGST refund on exports. The author discusses both propositions – multiple registrations, and multiple units in same registration.
Unhappy toy story – A classification conundrum under GST
The article intends to demystify the controversial issue relating to the classification of different kinds of toys under GST. It raises the question as to whether the toys like guns, skipping ropes, musical toys and the toys which fall under the scope of ‘other toys’ in the HSN explanatory note to Heading 9503, can be classified under Sl. No. 228 of Schedule II (12% GST) to Notification No. 1/2017-Central Tax (Rate).
GST on services provided in the course of employment
Employers often arrange for various facilities such as transportation, canteen, healthcare, insurance, for their employees. The article discusses the questions as to whether the said facilities arranged by the employer amount to supply of services and whether GST is applicable on the nominal amounts recovered from the employees. The author traces the history of the controversy, right from the service tax.
Charges for delayed payment – Can they escape from valuation!
Analysing Section 15(2)(d) of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, the article elaborately discusses the question as to whether every charge paid for delayed payment of any amount form part of the value of supply. In the opinion of the authors, Section 15(2)(d) does not cover all scenarios where additional charges are paid.
Tata Motors’ AAR decision: A fix to the age-old strife?
Employee recoveries have always been a contentious issue, both in pre-GST era and under GST. The article elaborately analysis a recent decision of Maharashtra AAR in the case of Tata Motors, where the Authority has held that the provision of bus facilities by the employer to the employee on a nominal price falls under ‘employer-employee’ relation and is not a ‘supply’. Analysing whether the said ruling will be beneficial for the assessees, the author discusses the effect on other doctrines.
‘Intermediary’ – Mediating required for intermediary
The article discusses at length the issue as to whether an intermediary suppling service to a foreign customer should discharge CGST+SGST or IGST. The authors are of the view that in such case, the transaction would be covered under Section 13(8)(c) and be deemed as inter-State supply as per Section 7(5)(c). They also state that the Gujarat High Court’s observation in the case of Material Recycling Association of India, that CGST+SGST would be liable in such case, is a mere obiter dicta.
The article elaborately discusses the thin line which a payment needs to cross in order to become a consideration. Discussing the definitions of ‘consideration’ under GST law and Indian Contract Act, 1872, the article states that payment should have a direct and sufficient nexus with the supply and be at the desire of the promisor.
Is the time limit for filing TRAN-1 sacrosanct – Madras High Court adds a twist to the never-ending tale
Question whether the time limit imposed on transitioning the credit into GST from the erstwhile regime is sacrosanct has now been decided by various High Courts and interestingly, not all of them have taken the same view. Recently the Madras High Court has held that the provision imposing time limit is intra vires the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 and is mandatory in nature.
The article attempts to explain when the transfer of a business should be treated as a ‘transfer of a going concern, as a whole or an independent part thereof’ which is an exempt supply under GST laws.
As tax professionals we get excited every time we hear news about Goods and Services Tax (“GST”) Council holding periodical meetings. Some of the GST Council meetings, particularly the ones held during the second half of financial year 2017-18 have more or less been small scale budgets, with announcement on various trade facilitation measures.
The COVID-19 pandemic has majorly hit the trade and industry, slowing down economies around the globe. The businesses in India have also been severely impacted by the recent lockdown which has created a fear of recession in the economy.
Due to the current lockdown, the Government has introduced certain relief measures for the industries by extending the timelines for statutory and regulatory compliances under various laws. In this regard, the Finance Ministry has issued multiple notifications on 03-04-2020. A snapshot of the notifications relevant for present discussion is as under:
GST on ocean freight – Smooth sailing ahead for assessees?
Taxation of a cross-border transaction is one of the most complex and disputed areas of litigation. Further, the recent trade wars between the major economies of the world are adding fuel to the fire. One specific industry which had been largely immune from GST or VAT is the shipping industry undertaking international transportation. Most major economies have chosen not to levy GST or VAT on transactions involving movement of goods internationally.
Intermediary services - Taxability of cross-border services after withdrawal of circular
Cross-border supplies (import and export) of goods and services generally entail the presence of an intermediary. Such an intermediary is usually a subsidiary of the foreign principal which undertakes facilitation as well as provision of various services on behalf of the principal. Each such case involves provision of two independent supplies, i.e., one from the principal to the ultimate customer and another from the agent to the principal.
Applicability of Doctrine of Merger between intimation under Section 143(1) and assessment order under Section 143(3)
The article in this issue of Direct Tax Amicus discusses the issue of whether an intimation under Section 143(1) of the Income Tax Act, 1961 will automatically merge with an assessment order under Section 143(3). Considering various decisions of the ITAT, the authors note that it can be inferred that a strait jacket formula cannot be adopted for applying the Doctrine of Merger.
Development Rights: A service or a condition precedent to sale of land
The divergent perspectives on the treatment of development rights; whether as a service or an outright sale, have led to confusion in the realm of land transactions. Therefore, while finality is anticipated from the constitutional courts in GST regime, it is prudent for businesses to take an informed call on the taxability of development rights.
Is the difference between Tax and Fees obliterated?
The article discusses the difference between Tax and Fees and how the Courts in recent time are diverting from the earlier decisions highlighting the difference between Tax and Fees.
Secondment or employment: Court’s observation opens new opportunities for tax risk mitigation in 2024
The article discusses the observation of the Supreme Court in Northern Operating Systems case, recent investigations on the issue, CBIC Instruction, interim orders passed by different High Courts on factual matrix of the cases, legal position under the GST law and the way forward. Elaborating on the test / factors to determine the employee-employer relationship, the article deliberates on application of said tests/factors on the Supreme Court decision, and the factual differentiation of case.
Tax relief on Grants: Not to be taken for grant-ed!
The article notes that given the voluntary and unilateral nature of a grant, there exists ambiguity whether provision of a grant qualifies to be a taxable supply under the GST law, as to qualify as a supply it is essential that a good or service is provided for a consideration. The authors observe that it needs to be examined on case-to-case basis, whether the provision of the grant in a particular arrangement has its strings attached to the service provided and the consideration paid.
The equivocal nature of the advisory regarding Input Tax Credit (ITC) reversal under Rule 37(A)
The article discusses the conflicting nature of a recent Advisory issued by the GSTN in respect of ITC reversal on account of new CGST Rule 37(A). The authors in this regard discuss various ambiguities surrounding this Advisory, like the period to be considered for computation of amount of ITC to be reversed, whether data of GSTR 2A or GSTR 2B is to be considered, etc. According to them, there is a requirement of detailed guidelines.
Classification of goods under the correct tariff item is the first and the most litigative issue in any tax jurisdiction. The article hence analyses the implications of a Madras HC decision which has held that flavored milk is classifiable under Heading 0402 and not under Heading 2202 covering beverage containing milk. Deliberating on the reasoning of the High Court and the relevance of this decision, the authors highlight various issues which need to be understood by the industry.
Competency and powers for VAT amendments in GST regime
The article discusses the recent decision of the Supreme Court holding that the amendments to Telangana VAT Act, Gujarat VAT Act and Maharashtra VAT Act, after 1 July 2017, were not correct. It notes that the impact of the Court’s observations on competency of the State legislature for VAT amendments and introduction of VAT Amnesty Schemes by the States, is an interesting academic issue to explore. According to the authors, the observations of the Court will have an impact on levying VAT on..
A tale of tax technology and GST matching woes: Balancing idealism and pragmatism
The article discusses the problem of absence of mechanism for matching Input Tax Credit (‘ITC’). It analyses a recent Rajasthan High Court decision in the case of Hindustan Lever Ltd., where the practicality of this matching exercise has come into question and observes that while on one hand, requiring suppliers to collect certificates or proof from recipients may lead to administrative inefficiencies, on the other hand, allowing businesses to claim reductions in tax liability...
The article revolves around the recommendation of the 50th Meeting of the GST Council and the clarification brought in by the CBIC Circular No. 199/2023-GST, dated 17 July 2023 with respect to distribution of credit through Input Service Distributor (‘ISD’). Noting that the Circular has put at rest many disputes surrounding the issue, the authors highlight some open issues which need to be addressed in view of the proposed amendment in law to make the ISD registration mandatory.
Key issues impacting the pharmaceutical sector – Classification, human resources & investigations
Indian Pharmaceutical Industry plays a prominent role in the Global Pharma Ecosystem. It is the world's largest provider of generic medicines by volume and is also the largest vaccine supplier in the world. The value of this sector is expected to reach USD 65 billion by 2024. Indian pharmaceutical products are exported to various overseas markets including the US, UK, European Union, etc.
Key issues impacting the Pharmaceutical Sector – Quandaries for the Industry
The pharmaceutical sector in India plays a seminal position in the domestic and international economy. It provides more than 50 per cent of global demand for several vaccines, 40 percent of generic demand in the US and 25 percent of all medicines in UK. The value of this sector has been estimated at $42 billion in 2021, and it is expected to reach $65 billion by 2024 .
Export and global operation: Challenges Faced by Indian Pharma Industry
In this article, the authors discuss key challenges faced by the pharma industry in GST which may affect the industry in their global operations and exports, imports and refunds, which are aside from the issues being faced in marketing and supply chain, procurement and input tax credit, etc, covered separately here.
The article seeks to analyse the GST implications on leasing of capital goods between ‘distinct persons’, in the light of a recent ruling of the Maharashtra Appellate Authority of Advance Ruling. After providing the crisp summary of the Ruling, the article examines the implication of the Ruling in respect of issues regarding valuation, mere movement of goods not amounting to supply, and documentation.
The article discusses a recent decision of the Larger Bench of the CESTAT which settles, in favour of assessee, the issue as to whether Business Auxiliary Services (BAS) provided by Indian agents to foreign entities qualify as export of services under the service tax regime. The article in this regard also analyses whether this decision of the Larger Bench will have any impact in the GST regime.
Eligibility of Input Tax Credit vis-à-vis inherent loss of inputs during manufacture
The Madras High Court recently in the case of Eastman Exports Global Clothing, settled an interesting question of law pertaining to the reversal of Input Tax Credit on the loss of inputs which is inherent to the process of manufacturing. Although the judgment pertains to the treatment of manufacturing loss under Section 19(9)(iii) of the Tamil Nadu VAT Act, the principle enunciated by the Court is very helpful in determining the entitlement of ITC vis-à-vis Section 17(5)(h) of the CGST Act.
Withholding Income Tax: Withholding the ambiguity in GST Valuation?
The article highlights the intricacies of TDS withholding, under the income tax provisions, which appear to impact the taxable value under GST in case of import of services. The moot question is whether the taxable value for discharging GST should be confined only to the contractual payment qua the foreign service provider or the amount of TDS, paid by the Indian service recipient as additional statutory obligation, should also be added. Analysing various Court and Tribunal decisions, the...
Dry lease of aircrafts under GST: A classification conundrum
The article discusses elaborately the problems of classification and rate of GST in case of dry leasing of an aircraft. In respect of classification, the authors note that there is no specific mention of aircrafts under the Explanatory Notes to sub-heading 997311 or under the residuary entry 997319, though the Service Code 7311 of the UNCPC provides for transport equipment and specifically includes aircrafts. For rate of tax, the authors note that though it can be argued...
Classification of indigenous ‘Rab’ prepared from sugar cane: The final decision
The issue of classification of the product ‘Rab’ (semi-solid sugarcane juice) and applicable rate of tax on its supply has been a subject matter of dispute for a long time. The article intends to highlight the divergent practices followed by the industry and analyse if the CBIC Circular No. 189/01/2023-GST, dated 13 January 2023 has resolved the issue in entirety. Elaborately analysing the issues and concerns...
‘Value addition’ in Value Addition Tax: Extension of limitation period
Post introduction of GST, the State Governments of Kerala, Gujarat and Telangana have amended their VAT laws with the objective of enhancing the limitation period in different forms. The said extension of limitation period needs to be tested on the touchstone of the Indian Constitution i.e., whether the States continued to possess ‘power’ under the Constitution to levy and administer VAT with the advent of GST law.
The article discusses the GST liability on arbitral awards. It notes that though the CBIC Circular No. 178/10/2022-GST, dated 3 August 2022 has paved the way in understanding the GST implications on arbitral awards, determination of the nature of the arbitral award, requires analysis of facts surrounding each case and the terms and conditions of the contract entered between the parties as the awarded amount may not necessarily be in the nature of a compensation.
Essentiality Certificates under Customs and GST laws: Need for synchronization
Petroleum is an indispensable commodity for the fulfilment of daily human needs. Not only does the petroleum industry act as a nodal industry for other industries like textile, automobile etc., petroleum has deep-rooted impact on the inflation rate and economic growth of a country.
Government/ PSU procurements – Possible consequences of Supreme Court decision in Bharat Forge
Procurement by Government or Public Sector Undertakings through tenders has been subject to frequent litigations. The article discusses the recent decision of Supreme Court in Bharat Forge Limited which will have widespread implications on the whole procurement process. The Court has held that the supplier is required to enquire and thereafter arrive at a conclusion regarding the relevant HSN Code and the relevant rate of tax applicable to the item. Further, the Apex Court has directed that...
New Rule 88B providing for manner of calculating interest – Susceptible to challenge?
Due to periodical amendments, the provisions relating to levy of interest under GST has been the subject matter of varied interpretations. The issue concerning payment of interest on the gross/net tax liability in case of delayed payment of taxes was the subject matter for our article published in Tax Amicus (May 2022/Issue 131).
Arrest of perpetrators for fraudulent passing and availing ITC in GST – Some issues
Under the Cenvat and Modvat regime as well as under various incentive schemes under the Customs law/FTDRA, there were unscrupulous persons, who created various firms/companies in the name of other individuals, existing or non-existing, for the purposes of undertaking fraudulent paper transactions.
Compensation Cess and sharing of revenue with States – Some points to ponder
On the 5th Anniversary of implementation of GST in India, the article discusses the levy of compensation cess which was initially imposed to compensate the States for their revenue loss due to GST implementation, and which was supposed to expire after 5 years. Elaborately discussing the levy, the article deliberates the background of the recommendation of the GST Council to extend the levy till March 2026. It also notes how the States will not get any compensation after June 2022. The authors.
Interest on delayed payment of tax – The saga continues!
This article concerns Section 50 of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 (‘CGST Act’). Much has been said and done about whether interest is liable to be paid on the gross tax liability in case of delayed payment of taxes.
Discharge of indirect tax liabilities and procedural compliance during intervening period in case of amalgamation/ merger / demerger
The article discusses at length the significance of ‘appointed date’, ‘effective date’ and various clauses of the scheme of amalgamation/ merger/ demerger in the light of indirect tax laws. Elaborating upon the concepts, the author deliberates on a dispute in respect of those transactions which are undertaken between the appointed date and the effective date/till the fresh registration under indirect tax is obtained by the successor in its own name.
(In)voluntary payments made during investigations – Perspectives from Bundl Technologies
One of the common woes of an assessee facing an investigation, under the Central Goods and Service Tax Act, 2017 (‘CGST Act’) is that they are often compelled to make payments during the pendency of the investigation, mostly only to buy peace temporarily.
Westinghouse Saxby Farmer Ltd. – The saga continues
The Supreme Court’s decision in Westinghouse Saxby Farmer Ltd. v. CCE, Calcutta (‘Westinghouse decision’) evoked an intriguing discussion on the classification of ‘relays’ used as part of Railway signalling systems.
Valuation under GST – When price is not the sole consideration for a supply?
Business dynamics requires a company to adopt various models of transactions. The nature and manner of executing such transactions is decided by them considering many business factors.
The textile sector has recently been in news for various good reasons. The Government is leaving no stone unturned in providing conducive ecosystem to explore the textile industry’s competitive and comparative advantage.
Generally, GST is payable on the transaction value which is the price paid or payable for the supply of goods and services when transaction takes place between un-related persons and price is the sole consideration for supply. However, a registered person may at his option, discharge tax on sale of used or second-hand goods on the margin amount which is the difference between selling price and purchase price of the goods.
Intermediary services – Why Circular No. 159 should not be ignored?
After the 45th meeting of GST Council, when Press Release stated that in order to remove ambiguity and legal disputes, Circular will be issued providing clarification(s) on scope of ‘intermediary services’, while some cheered with hope, others did not want to raise their expectations.
Asset distribution on retirement of partners – A transaction with multiple GST issues
The retirement of partners from the partnership firms is a universal phenomenon. Further, it is not an aberrant practice for partnership firms to distribute assets to its partners at the time of retirement. However, with issues cropping up in the GST law, such distribution of assets to the retiring partners is an area of concern.
Deciphering the scope of ‘goods’-A labyrinthine task!
The scope and ambit of ‘goods’ has always been a contentious issue from a taxation perspective. Tax policies in India have witnessed an evolution of diverse taxes levied on the acts of production, manufacture, sale, lease and transfer of ‘goods’. Thus, situations where one has had to contend with the question of whether an article qualifies as ‘goods’ has been rather frequent.
Shifting the burden of indirect taxes: A contract conundrum
Taxes are commonly categorized as ‘direct taxes’ and ‘indirect taxes’ due to the economic theory that indirect taxes are ultimately borne by the consumer despite being charged on the supplier. Simply put, the burden of an indirect tax can be shifted onto another and from this facet, the nomenclature ‘indirect tax’ is derived.
Bill of Supply whether a tax invoice for issuance of GST debit/credit note?
GST as a law has been very dynamic with amendments happening day in and day out as the legislature and the subjects learn from implementing the law to the practical aspects of the business. One of the recent amendments to the law is the amendment to sub-section (4) to Section 16 of the Central Goods & Services Tax Act, 2017 (‘CGST Act’) which was made effective from 1 January 2021.
Extension of limitation by Apex Court due to second wave of Covid-19
The sudden onset of the pandemic Covid-19 in March 2020 had pushed litigants across the country into hardships with respect to the filing of petitions/ suits/ appeals/ applications etcetera and initiating and continuing legal proceedings before the various Courts and Tribunals.
Untangled indirect tax web in automotive sector – Whether proposed PLI scheme will do justice?
The automotive industry is a major contributor to the Indian economy. Currently, it is the fourth largest automotive sector in the world and is expected to come under top 3 automotive sectors in the world by 2026. The sector also accounts for about 15% of the country’s total tax collections.
Parotta or Roti? Curd or Yogurt? Classifying culinary delights under the Indian GST regime
HSN Classification of a food product is important for determining the GST rate. GST rate impacts pricing decisions of the product and legal declarations on the package.
CGST Rule 96(10) has seen conflicting interpretations, retrospective amendments and challenges. Deliberating on the interpretation of the word ‘person’ used in said rule, the article attempts to answer the question as to whether other registrations of a company, which availed benefit of Advance authorisaiton/EOU scheme in one registration, become ineligible to claim IGST refund on exports. The author discusses both propositions – multiple registrations, and multiple units in same registration.
Unhappy toy story – A classification conundrum under GST
The article intends to demystify the controversial issue relating to the classification of different kinds of toys under GST. It raises the question as to whether the toys like guns, skipping ropes, musical toys and the toys which fall under the scope of ‘other toys’ in the HSN explanatory note to Heading 9503, can be classified under Sl. No. 228 of Schedule II (12% GST) to Notification No. 1/2017-Central Tax (Rate).
GST on services provided in the course of employment
Employers often arrange for various facilities such as transportation, canteen, healthcare, insurance, for their employees. The article discusses the questions as to whether the said facilities arranged by the employer amount to supply of services and whether GST is applicable on the nominal amounts recovered from the employees. The author traces the history of the controversy, right from the service tax.
Charges for delayed payment – Can they escape from valuation!
Analysing Section 15(2)(d) of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, the article elaborately discusses the question as to whether every charge paid for delayed payment of any amount form part of the value of supply. In the opinion of the authors, Section 15(2)(d) does not cover all scenarios where additional charges are paid.
Tata Motors’ AAR decision: A fix to the age-old strife?
Employee recoveries have always been a contentious issue, both in pre-GST era and under GST. The article elaborately analysis a recent decision of Maharashtra AAR in the case of Tata Motors, where the Authority has held that the provision of bus facilities by the employer to the employee on a nominal price falls under ‘employer-employee’ relation and is not a ‘supply’. Analysing whether the said ruling will be beneficial for the assessees, the author discusses the effect on other doctrines.
The article elaborately discusses the thin line which a payment needs to cross in order to become a consideration. Discussing the definitions of ‘consideration’ under GST law and Indian Contract Act, 1872, the article states that payment should have a direct and sufficient nexus with the supply and be at the desire of the promisor.
Is the time limit for filing TRAN-1 sacrosanct – Madras High Court adds a twist to the never-ending tale
Question whether the time limit imposed on transitioning the credit into GST from the erstwhile regime is sacrosanct has now been decided by various High Courts and interestingly, not all of them have taken the same view. Recently the Madras High Court has held that the provision imposing time limit is intra vires the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 and is mandatory in nature.
The article attempts to explain when the transfer of a business should be treated as a ‘transfer of a going concern, as a whole or an independent part thereof’ which is an exempt supply under GST laws.
As tax professionals we get excited every time we hear news about Goods and Services Tax (“GST”) Council holding periodical meetings. Some of the GST Council meetings, particularly the ones held during the second half of financial year 2017-18 have more or less been small scale budgets, with announcement on various trade facilitation measures.
The COVID-19 pandemic has majorly hit the trade and industry, slowing down economies around the globe. The businesses in India have also been severely impacted by the recent lockdown which has created a fear of recession in the economy.
Due to the current lockdown, the Government has introduced certain relief measures for the industries by extending the timelines for statutory and regulatory compliances under various laws. In this regard, the Finance Ministry has issued multiple notifications on 03-04-2020. A snapshot of the notifications relevant for present discussion is as under:
GST on ocean freight – Smooth sailing ahead for assessees?
Taxation of a cross-border transaction is one of the most complex and disputed areas of litigation. Further, the recent trade wars between the major economies of the world are adding fuel to the fire. One specific industry which had been largely immune from GST or VAT is the shipping industry undertaking international transportation. Most major economies have chosen not to levy GST or VAT on transactions involving movement of goods internationally.
Intermediary services - Taxability of cross-border services after withdrawal of circular
Cross-border supplies (import and export) of goods and services generally entail the presence of an intermediary. Such an intermediary is usually a subsidiary of the foreign principal which undertakes facilitation as well as provision of various services on behalf of the principal. Each such case involves provision of two independent supplies, i.e., one from the principal to the ultimate customer and another from the agent to the principal.
Withdrawal of corporate insolvency proceeding even prior to formation of committee of creditors
The article discusses a recent decision of the Supreme Court establishing that a plea for the withdrawal of the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process can be allowed by the adjudicating authority even prior to the establishment of the committee of creditors. The author observes that the Supreme Court has not only addressed the existing gap in Section 12A of the IBC but it has also recognized the obligatory status of Regulation 30A.
Revival of insolvency proceedings: Analysis and way forward
Revival of the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (‘CIRP’) proceedings refers to the restoration of the already withdrawn CIRP by a creditor which generally happens upon the breach of the settlement agreement (‘Settlement Agreement’) pursuant to which the application for CIRP also gets withdrawn. In such circumstances, rather than filing for a fresh application for initiation of CIRP, the creditor may seek reviving of the earlier application.
While the inclusion of interest amounts in ‘financial debt’, for the purposes of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016, is clearly provided for, the interest component in the case of ‘operational debt’ has always been a point of contention. Pointing out that there appears to be a deliberate difference in the language used for both terms – ‘financial debt’ and ‘operational debt’, the article also discusses many specific judgments of NCLT and NCLAT, delivered on the aforesaid quandary.
Obligation of vigilance under Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016
Vigilantibus, et non dormientibus, jura subveniunt is a noted maxim which means ‘the laws assist those who are vigilant, not those who sleep over their rights ‘ . This is a pertinent principle which applies predominantly while determining if a particular cause of action has been espoused within the limitation period.
Cross-border insolvency – The ever-evolving framework
We had dealt with the draft chapter on Cross Border Insolvency (‘CBI’), proposed to be included within the framework of Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (‘IBC’/ ‘Code’) vide Public Notice dated 20 June 2018, in our previous article featured in August 2018.
Contractual claims, Arbitration and the Insolvency Code – The interplay and fault lines
The Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code, 2017 (‘Code’) was, inter alia, enacted for the resolution or liquidation of companies defaulting on their debts. These debts may include claims subject to an arbitration or sums determined in the form of an award. In the present article, we identify some potential scenarios where parties to an arbitration agreement must be conscious of the interplay between arbitration and the Code.
License dues trump the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code?
The NCLAT, in its recent decision in Union of India v. Vijaykumar V Iyer, has arguably created a new class of creditors, not previously known to the provisions of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (‘IBC’). The Appellate Tribunal effectively found that licenses granted by the Department of Telecommunications, Government of India (‘DoT’) to private players for the use of spectrum can override provisions of the IBC.
Novel Corona Virus Disease 2019, or better known as COVID-19, has created havoc across the globe. Till date, the pandemic has infected lakhs of people across the world and the said number has been increasing rapidly each day. Due to outbreak of COVID-19, various countries including India, have imposed lockdowns to combat the spread of the disease.
With great influence comes great responsibility: Trademark disparagement
The article discusses the recent decision of Delhi High Court of Zydus Wellness Products Limited v. Prashant Desai . The court highlights the importance of Social Media Influencers to avoid commenting on topics outside the realm of their expertise.
The crocodile conundrum: Lacoste v. Crocodile International explained
The article discusses the recent judgement of Lacoste & Anr. v. Crocodile International Pte Ltd. Wherein the Delhi High Court ruled upon a two-decade long conflict between so-called ‘mirror’ logos of a crocodile/ saurian. The judgment also highlights the test of the various principles and procedures, which lie in disputes that are subject to trial.
Not attending Hearing cannot be the basis for refusal of Patent application – Delhi HC remands matter
The article discusses a recent decision of the Delhi High Court wherein the Court has held that non-appearance of the Applicant in the hearing before the Controller cannot dispense with the Controller’s obligation to pass a reasoned and speaking order. The High Court has held that the Appellant not attending the hearing cannot be the basis for passing a decision under Section 15 of the Patents Act.
Recently, Indian Courts have taken a proactive stance towards awarding increasing sums of damages for infringement in IPR matters. However, to balance competing goals of compensation, justice and uniformity, Courts have laid down several parameters which are to be considered while calculating damages. The article, while exploring the subject, analyses various case law and the Intellectual Property Division Rules as issued by the Delhi High Court.
Pacing towards disentangling Section 3(p) of the Patents Act, 1970 relating to ‘traditional knowledge’
The article chiefly focuses on the Madras High Court’s interpretation of Section 3(p) of the Patents Act, 1970 relating to 'traditional knowledge'. According to the authors, the decision is a first stride towards judicial clarification of Section 3(p). The interpretation provided by the Court is a much needed consolation sought by the Applicants where the Patent Applications relate to products or processes, misconstrued as being part of traditional knowledge.
Reaffirming standards: Bioavailability v. Therapeutic efficacy and Coverage v. Disclosure
The article discusses the recent judgement of the Divisional Bench of the Delhi High Court in the case of Natco Pharma v. Novartis Ag and Anr. The bench focusses on the two pivotal issues under a broader question of a credible challenge to the validity of a patent. First was enhanced bioavailability data could be construed as proof of enhanced ‘therapeutic efficacy and second was the concept of Coverage v. Disclosure in patent applications.
Exploring the uncertainties surrounding Section 15 and Section 21(1) of the Patents Act
The article examines a recent Bombay High Court decision wherein the Court had analysed the Order issued by the Controller under Section 21(1) of the Patents Act [deemed abandonment]. The article closely examines Section 21(1) and Section 15 of the Act and observes that there is potential confusion in the applicability of the two provisions. It also notes that the Controller in this case had issued a hearing notice informing that the patent application was deemed to be abandoned.
Trademark Siesta: The risks of neglecting use of a trademark
The article discusses nuances of cancellation of a trademark due to non-use. Deliberating upon the legal framework for non-use cancellation and a recent Delhi High Court decision on same, the authors also list certain strategies which may be implemented by the trademark owners to avoid non-use cancellation. According to them by understanding the risks and taking proactive steps, one can protect a brand’s goodwill, and identity and ensure that the trademark remains a valuable asset for business.
A rising need for a modern understanding of ‘Traditional Knowledge’ under Indian patent law
The article sheds light on the current Indian Patent Law associated with safeguarding Traditional Knowledge. It discusses various case law and the Indian Patent Office’s Guidelines. According to the authors, keeping in view the recent time-honoured recognition given to traditional knowledge by the WIPO treaty, a statutory definition of the term as well as judicial interpretation of Section 3(p) can help both the Examiners and the Applicants.
Patentability – High Court clarifies the language of Section 3(c) of the Patents Act, 1970
The article elaborately discusses a recent Madras High Court decision setting aside an order passed by the Assistant Controller of Patents and Designs which had refused the grant of a patent under Section 3(c) of the Patents Act, 1970. The Court has held that Section 3(c) would only apply to a process of finding a hitherto undiscovered non-living substance by identifying and isolating it from nature.
Plant variety protection – Procedural infirmities, not impacting eligibility of applicant/application for registration, are not fatal
The article discusses the recent Delhi High Court Division Bench decision which has held that procedural infirmities, which have no impact on the eligibility of the Applicant to apply for a plant variety application or on the eligibility of the application for registration, are not fatal to the registration, unless such infirmities are due to willful misrepresentation or to gain any undue advantage.
Disclaimers – A credible way of amendment in patent claims and specification
One of the permissible ways of amendments to claims and/or specification is to incorporate suitable disclaimers during the patent prosecution and at the post grant stage. The article aims to bring down the perspectives of the use of disclaimers as a provision to amend claims and/or specification. It focusses on provisions available under Section 59 of the Patents Act, 1970 and a glimpse on such provisions in major jurisdictions such as US and EU that are of greater interest.
The Ibrutinib saga: Delhi High Court restrains generics from manufacturing and marketing Ibrutinib
The article discusses the recent decision of Single Judge of the Delhi High Court adjudicating a batch of suits filed by Pharmacyclics LLC and Johnson and Johnson Pvt. Ltd., pertaining to the infringement of Indian Patent 262968 against Hetero Labs, Natco Pharma, BDR Pharma, Alkem Labs and Shilpa Medicare for manufacturing and marketing Ibrutinib. The Court restrained the Defendants in all suits from manufacturing and marketing Ibrutinib, pending final disposal of the suits.
Keywords as trademarks not a source identifier – The legal tussle involving Google adwords
The article discusses the recent judgment of the Delhi High Court in the case of MakeMyTrip India Pvt. Ltd, Booking Netherlands & Booking India and Google LLC in which the court reiterated that use of trademark as key words of search engines displays of someone else advertisement, absent any confusion or unfair advantage, would not infringe the trademark.
Trademark tangle: Deepika Padukone’s beauty brand dances through the tunes of ‘use in a trademark sense’ v. ‘descriptive use’
A recent order passed by the Delhi High Court in favour of DPKA Universal Consumer Venture, rejecting the plea of interim injunction by Lotus Herbals against the former’s use of ‘Lotus Splash’, has garnered a lot of attention. The decision discusses the question of infringement, with specific reference to Section 30(2)(a) of the Trade Marks Act, 1999. The article discusses this interim order and analyses the jurisprudence on Section 30(2)(a).
There are two discernible facets when a celebrity wants to protect their personality rights: first, the right to protect one’s image from being commercially exploited without permission by treating it as a tort of passing off and second, the right to privacy which entails one’s right to be left alone. Analysing jurisprudential development in US and UK, the article elaborately summarises many case law governing jurisprudence in India on IP laws.
‘Audi alteram partem’, yes, but not for Opponent in patent examination proceedings!
The Article discuss the Delhi High Court decision in the matter of Novartis AG v. Natco Pharma & Anr. where the Court held that clear distinction between the examination and the opposition process of patents is essential, and merging these distinct processes would render the entire system unwieldy and counterproductive. The High Court was deliberating on the question as to whether the opponent has a right to be heard..
Are ‘trappings of a court’ enough to cloth an order of an authority under Section 2(14) of CPC?
The article discusses a recent Delhi HC decision holding that Letters Patent Appeal is allowed in trademark appeals and that a bar on such intra-court appeals as provided under Section 100A of Civil Procedure Code (CPC), 1908, do not apply to Letters Patent powers of High Courts with regard to trademark disputes as they are saved by virtue of Sections 4 and 104 of CPC.
Geographical Indications – Madhya Pradesh High Court elucidates registered proprietor’s rights
In a recent decision dated 18 December 2023 , the Division Bench (Two-Judge Bench) of the Madhya Pradesh High Court, while adjudicating a petition under Article 227 of the Constitution of India, set aside the order dated 28 October 2021 passed by the Commercial District Court, Indore and held that a suit for infringement of Geographical Indication tags is maintainable by the Registered Proprietor of the GI tag, even if the Authorised User of the same GI tag is not impleaded as a party.
The vigour that Form-3 carries – Delhi High Court imposes costs for material suppression and misrepresentation of facts
The article elaborately discusses a recent decision of the Single Judge of the Delhi High Court, imposing costs of INR 5 lakh on the Plaintiff for having suppressed material facts by way of failing to report that corresponding foreign patents of the suit patent had been invalidated/refused in several foreign jurisdictions.
Scope of ‘known substance’ under Patents Act Section 3(d): Madras High Court elaborates
The article discusses a recent Madras HC decision highlighting nuances of applying Section 3(d) in so far as the ‘known substance’ based exclusion under the said provision, is concerned. Merely because the claimed invention is a polymorph of a compound that is previously patented, does not automatically render it a ‘known substance’, unless the compound is published before the priority date of the claimed invention.
Registrability of trademarks derived from generic names in Pharma Industry – Madras HC strikes a balance
The article discusses a recent Madras HC decision against a refusal order for registration of the mark ‘Inimox’ considering an opposition by the owner of mark ‘Imox’, both used for pharmaceuticals. The Court has overturned the Registry’s findings in respect of ‘likelihood of confusion’ and directed the mark ‘Inimox’ to proceed for registration. This is an important decision clarifying on the contours of registering API-derivate brand names in the pharmaceutical industry.
Product-by-Process: Perception by Indian Patent Law
This article aims to explore the scope of patentability and infringement concerning product-by-process claims with a specific emphasis on the recent two decisions of the Delhi High Court, passed by the learned Single Judge and the Division Bench of the Delhi High Court in the case of CS(COMM) 261/2021 and connected matters.
Pioneering work in the field of mRNA-based innovations- A case study
Dr. Katalin Kariko and Dr. Drew Weissman have been named the winners of the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine for their innovations concerning nucleoside base modifications that enabled the development of effective mRNA vaccines against COVID-19.
In recent years Geographical Indications (‘GIs’) has emerged as one of the most important instruments for protecting the “quality, reputation or other character of goods essentially attributable to their geographical origin”. It is a ‘source identifier’ and indicator of quality. It helps to promote goods of a particular region or country and is “eligible for relief from acts of infringement and/or unfair competition”.
Patent of method of treating a plant – Interpretation of Section 3(h)
The article discusses a recent decision of the Hon’ble Calcutta High Court which has set aside an order passed by the Controller of Patents and Designs refusing the grant of patent for treatment of a plant disease, for being a method of agriculture under Section 3(h) of the Patents Act, 1970. The High Court in this regard noted that Sections 3(h) which bars the patenting of a method of agriculture or horticulture, does not contemplate treatment of plants
Toblerone saga – Sweet enough; but not Swiss enough
The article discusses the application of the Swissness Act, 2017 which regulates the use of Swiss symbols or labels, associating the products and services with Switzerland. Talking about the criteria for Swissness and the effect of the Act on the famous chocolate brand, the article notes that evocation is a huge factor when understanding consumer psychology. According to the author, while the Act does not refer to trademarks per se, it does find its basis in the concept of evocation.
De-blurring Section 59 of the Indian Patents Act 1970
The article examines a recent decision of the Delhi High Court, where the High Court has redefined the boundaries of permissible claim amendments for overcoming the objections on non-patentability especially Section 3(i) of the Patents Act, 1970, without jeopardizing the requirements of Section 59. The primary focus of this article is on the interpretation of Section 3(i) and Section 59 of the Act as provided by the High Court
Patentability of Selection Inventions – Analysis of recent Delhi High Court decisions
The article analyses two decisions of the Delhi High Court which have adjudicated patentability of the species patent with respect to the genus patent. The Court in one of the case disapproved the existence of dichotomy between ‘coverage’ and ‘disclosure’, and stated that when a product is covered in the genus patent, the specific disclosure of the same is immaterial. However, the Court in a different decision acknowledged the distinction between ‘coverage’ and ‘disclosure’ ...
A ray of hope: Delhi High Court allows amending method claims to product claims
The article discusses a landmark Judgement passed by the Delhi High Court in the matter of Allergan Inc v. Controller of Patents. With this judgement, the Court has allowed amendments made by the Appellant for converting the method of treatment claims to product claims. Capturing the facts of the case, the appeal proceedings, and the decision including the essence of the order, the authors conclude that the present order will serve to be a significant milestone in patent prosecution in India.
The article examines a Delhi High Court decision against an order passed by the Controller of Patents and Designs refusing the grant of the patent application for lacking inventive step. It further highlights the fundamental principles discussed by the High Court for analysis of an ‘inventive step’ in India. The article notes how the High Court discussed the various approaches available for determining the inventive step which were followed across various jurisdictions...
Do the trademarks provisions permit registrar to transfer pending petitions to IPD of the Court?
The article discusses a Delhi High Court decision where one of the questions that came up before the IPD, Delhi was whether the Trade Marks Registry can transfer pending rectification/cancellation petitions to the IPD of the respective Hon’ble High Court. The Court observed that if the court thinks it is necessary to consolidate and hear together all the matters related to the same or related subject matter before the IPD, it may direct so.
The article further discusses the evolving law around Divisional Applications in India. Analysing two decisions of the IPAB and one of the Delhi High Court, the article notes that the requirement that the claims of a divisional application have to be based on, more particularly, to have their route, or to be gleaned from, or clearly exist in, the claims of the parent application, appears to be a unique one and such a requirement is not seen in other major jurisdictions, such as Europe or USA.
Divisional Applications in India: Evolving jurisprudence
The article discusses elaborately the evolving jurisprudence of Divisional Applications in India. It notes that in India, a divisional application under Section 16 of the Patents Act, 1970 may be pursued to overcome an objection by the Patent Office on the unity of invention, or voluntarily by the Applicant if the claims of the parent Application are directed to more than one invention. Citing a recent decision of the Delhi High Court, the authors note that in India...
Are the time limits prescribed by the Patents Act, 1970, mandatory or directory?
The issue in this article discusses on the prescribed timelines set under the Patents Act, 1970 (‘Act’) and the Patent Rules, 2003 (‘Rules’) and throws insights on the flexibility of timelines set forth under different orders.
Section 29(1) of the Trade Marks Act, 1999 (‘Act’) provides the manner in which a registered trademark may be infringed by a person not being a registered proprietor or an authorized user of the registered trademark. It states that such a person may infringe a registered trademark if, in the course of trade, the person uses an identical or deceptively similar trademark...
Applicability of the Doctrine of Equivalents in the Indian context
With the passage of time, new technology is emerging day by day and this has resulted in a greater number of patent related disputes than ever. One of the key elements surrounding a patent dispute is the construction of the claim language, or claim construction, to determine their scope and extent of coverage.
The ‘Doctrine of Territoriality’, accords protection to a trademark within the territory of the state where it has been registered or used. In simpler words, it means that a trademark shall be protected against any unauthorized use by any person within the country where it has been registered, used, or is known to the public.
The trademark regime in India provides broad protection and covers unconventional marks such as shape marks, sound marks, image marks, combination of colours, etc. However, when it comes to single colour marks, the regime is far from colourful.
Obtaining statutory licence requires strict compliance with Copyright Rules
Over the years, radio broadcasters and copyright owners i.e., music producers have been in a tussle before various courts and tribunals on various issues pertaining to music licensing. In the past year, radio broadcasters and music producers have been at crossroads with each other regarding compliance with certain rules prescribed for obtaining a statutory licence.
The present article deals with a noteworthy decision of the Indian Patents Office (‘IPO’) on the pre-grant opposition under Section 25(1) of the Patents Act, 1970 (‘Patents Act’). The said order was issued pursuant to the Delhi High Court (‘High Court’) remanding the matter to the Assistant Controller of Patents & Design (‘Controller’).
Copyright authorship to artificial intelligence: Who owns it?
On 14 February 2022, the Review Board of the United States Copyright Office (‘Board’) opined on the registrability of works generated by Artificial Intelligence (‘AI’), a topic which has been deliberated by scholars and professionals in the field of intellectual property law since the advent of autonomous technology.
Domain Name Registrars and their role in domain name infringement suits
The article analyses a recent decision of the Delhi High Court wherein the Court refused to grant the prayer seeking issuance of an omnibus order restraining the Defendants from offering domain names containing the word ‘SNAPDEAL’. Yet, the Court held that the Defendants will not be granted the ‘safe harbour’ protection under Section 79 of the Information Technology Act, 2000 if they continue to provide alternate domain names, for commercial profits, which infringe the registered trademarks.
Passing of an interim order during stay on a suit of infringement proceedings
The article discusses a recent Delhi High Court decision reiterating the principle encapsulated in Section 124 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999 while also clarifying the scope of Section 124(5). The Court confirmed that an interim order can be passed even if the infringement suit has been stayed in view of Section 124. However, the Court stated that in order to analyze whether an interim order can be passed under Section 124(5), it is imperative to look.
Dishonest use of a well-known and descriptive trademark amounting to infringement
The article analyses decision of the Delhi High Court which has held that once the Plaintiff has shown that the use by the Defendants is of the exact word i.e., the registered trademark of the plaintiff, and that the goods or services are identical, the Court will necessarily presume that confusion would arise in the minds of the public or consumers as to the origin of the goods or services and accordingly, an interim injunction would have to be issued. The authors state that even though.
Delhi High Court expounds on Doctrine of Equivalence and parallel import under patent law
In the recent case of Sotefin SA v. Indraprastha Cancer Society And Research Center & Ors a Single Judge of the Delhi High Court granted an interim injunction by restraining the Defendants from making, selling, exporting, or from offering for sale, importing or in any manner directly or indirectly dealing with infringing products namely, ‘Smart Dollies’ that infringed the Plaintiff’s patent IN214088 pertaining to a ‘Carriage for the horizontal transfer of motor vehicles in automatic mechanical
Prior use v. registered trademark – An analysis of Section 34 of Trade Marks Act, 1999
The article analyses Section 34 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999 which keeps on a higher ground the rights of a prior user of the mark than that of the registered proprietor of a trademark who is granted registration later. It highlights the key requirements that a prior user is required to meet and what the Courts consider in determining whether the ‘use’ requirements are satisfied. The article also discusses a few examples of evidentiary documentation that can be used.
Delhi High Court lays down rules of claim construction – Literal rule of interpretation to be applied while interpreting claims
In a detailed judgment, the Single Judge of the Delhi High Court rejected the challenge to the validity of the suit patent raised by the Defendants, as they had failed to establish a credible challenge concerning its validity.
Demystifying the scope of amendments in patent claims – Indian jurisdiction
Amendments to a patent application form an essential element in demarcating the scope of inventions. In India, claim amendments are governed by Sections 57 to 59 of the Patents Act, 1970 (hereinafter referred to as the ‘Act’).
Technological globalization, on account of its international, economical, and accessible character, has forced businesses to shift their business models from physical markets to electronic commerce (e-commerce) portals. In such a scenario, domain names, i.e., the user-friendly form of websites’ IP addresses, form an integral part of businesses as their identifiers in the realm of e-commerce.
Patents – Delhi High Court rules on disclosure vis-à-vis invalidity on ground of obviousness
The article elaborately discusses a recent decision of the Delhi High Court wherein the Court clarified that the mere coverage in every case does not result in obviousness. It also confirmed that the patent applications related to selection inventions may be granted, provided they satisfy three conditions. The High Court also held that coverage and disclosure are distinct concepts.
Meritorious win: Patentability of computer related inventions in India
In the case of Ferid Allani v. Union of India and Ors., the Intellectual Property Appellate Board (‘IPAB’) set aside the refusal order of the Indian Patent Office (‘IPO’) and allowed the appellant’s patent application.
Unconventional trademarks: A roadmap to the future
The article discusses the increasing tread among companies and individuals to go for unconventional or non-traditional trademarks. The authors note that while colour, sound, shape of goods, smell, motion, taste, touch/texture, and hologram marks are recognized in foreign jurisdictions, the Indian Trade Marks law recognizes only colour, shape of goods and sound marks as registrable marks, as there is a requirement of graphically representation in a paper form.
Rule of anti-dissection v. Rule of dominant feature – A legal conundrum
The likelihood of confusion or deception amongst the consuming public is a sine qua non element in an action for infringement or passing off. There are various parameters that are taken into consideration while assessing the degree of likelihood of confusion between two trademarks, such as the goods and services under the disputing marks, the class of consumer, and the trade channels involved, inter alia.
Coverage v. Disclosure – IPAB decides on what amounts to coverage and disclosure
The Intellectual Property Appellate Board (‘IPAB’) in an order dated 29 September 2020 allowed the appeal filed by Novartis AG (‘Appellant’) challenging the revocation of Indian Patent No. 276026 (IN’026) by the Deputy Controller of Patents & Designs, New Delhi (‘Respondent No. 2’) following post-grant opposition proceedings initiated by Natco Pharma Limited (‘Respondent No. 3’), and set aside the revocation order (‘impugned order’) as being ‘devoid of merit’.
Exploring TRIPS Covid-19 waiver: Is the remedy effective?
The unprecedented Covid-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc by not only taking countless lives but also by robbing the families of their means to livelihood. Countries across the world are grappling with both economic and social breakdown. While vaccinations have started in most countries, there is a glaring difference in accessibility and affordability of vaccines, drugs and other resources required to combat Covid-19 pandemic between the developed, developing and least developed countries.
Comparative advertising of soaps – No violation of trademark law if backed by science: Bombay High Court
Comparative Advertising is an aggressive form of marketing involving direct or veiled comparisons of one brand with one or more competing brands. Comparative advertisements may often lead to a legal tussle under the Indian Trademark Law.
A registered proprietor of a trademark is required to remain cautious on misuse of the trademark by others, failing which he may be disentitled from taking any legal action against the alleged offenders. Such disentitlement, referred to as ‘acquiescence’, therefore is a concept that every trademark owner must know. The article discusses Section 33 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999 while also analysing elements of acquiescence, burden of proof and various SC and HC decisions clarifying the concept.
Traversing issues under intellectual property and allied laws vis-a-vis food and agri sector
Food and agri-based industries are witnessing unprecedented levels of innovation which gives further impetus for patent protection and accordingly the necessity to assess and overcome the hurdles in this regard.
The article discusses elaborately a recent decision of the Delhi High Court on the question as to whether the communication of a sound recording to the public also amounts to communication of the literary and musical works embodied in the sound recording to the public. It was also held that the 2012 amendment in Section 19(10) of the Copyright Act was not retrospective in nature.
The Designs (Amendment) Rules 2021 (‘Amendment Rules’) have been published in the Gazette of India on 25 January 2021 by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The Amendment Rules come into effect from said date and further amend the Design Rules, 2001 which has been previously amended vide the Designs (Amendment) Rules, 2014. The article discusses elaborately, certain key changes brought in by the Amendment Rules.
Patent application disposal – Quantity at the cost of quality?
The article discusses at length the recent decision of the IPAB in the case of Wisig Networks Private Limited v. Controller. Observing that the case was a victim of hurried disposal of the patent applications, the IPAB held that although certain degree of check on quantitative performance of the officers at the IPO is essential, but the qualitative performance of the officers cannot be ignored. Highlighting the importance of a reasoned order, the author is also of the view that.
Patents – IPAB reaffirms principles of natural justice while discussing prior art documents and description
The article discusses elaborately, the recent decision of the Intellectual Property Appellate Board reaffirming the importance of the principles of natural justice in judicial and/or quasi-judicial decisions, whilst also clarifying aspects of patent law with respect to cited prior art documents and description of the invention. The IPAB criticised the Controller of Patents for having taken a contrary view as to the patentability.
Divisional Applications in India – Evolving jurisprudence
To file a divisional application in India, the parent application should include more than one invention while claims based on the same inventive concept is not allowed. Elaborately discussing various IPAB Orders, starting from the 2011 decision in the case of LG Electronics and up to the very recent decision in the case of Esco Corporation, the article examines several issues involving divisional applications.
Trademarks – Registration of similar/identical marks if services/goods offered are distinct
This case Sparx Group Co. Ltd. v. Senior Examiner of Trade Marks provides a definitive interpretation and application of the law with respect to the precedence of prior use and market recognition of a trademark when objected on relative grounds of refusal under Section 11 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999.
Timing of institution of a civil action is crucial
The Delhi High Court recently addressed an important issue under the copyright law, the idea-expression dichotomy, and rebuked the practice of litigants approaching the Courts for reliefs at the eleventh hour without any justification.
Inventive step assessment – IPAB elucidates important principles
The Intellectual Property Appellate Board (‘IPAB’) in a recent order dated 29-09-2020 allowed the appeal filed by Pharmacyclics, LLC challenging the revocation of Indian Patent No. 262968 by the Joint Controller of Patents and Designs, New Delhi following post-grant opposition proceedings initiated by Laurus Labs Pvt. Ltd.; and has set aside the revocation order as being ‘devoid of merit’.
Patents – Patentability with respect to inventive step and proof of right
In this case [Stempeutics Research Pvt. Ltd. v. The Assistant Controller of Patents & Designs ], the Intellectual Property Appellate Board (‘IPAB’) adjudicated patentability with respect to inventive step under Sections 2(1)(ja) and 3(e) of the Patents Act, 1970 (‘Act’). The IPAB also addressed the issue of submission of proof of right under Section 7(2) of the Act.
Trademarks “Your Wings to Life” and “Gives You Wings” are neither deceptively similar nor identical
In the present case [Red Bull AG v. Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Limited & Ors. ], the Intellectual Property Appellate Board (“IPAB”), determined whether a registered trademark of a sub-brand, if not in use, can be removed from the trademark register on the request of a non-aggrieved party.
Trademarks – Prior use holds precedence over prior registration
In the present case [Mandom Corp v. Fem Care Pharma Limited & Ors. ], the Intellectual Property Appellate Board (“IPAB”) examined one aspect of the often ambiguous issue in trademark law of prior use versus prior registration. It also clarified certain procedural law principles like res judicata, locus standi, and burden of proof.
Dishonest adoption of a well-known trademark for dissimilar goods and services - A ground of infringement
The Delhi High Court in the case of Bayerische Motoren Werke AG v. Om Balajee Automobile (India) Private Limited granted an ad-interim injunction to the plaintiff and restrained the defendants, from manufacturing, exporting, importing or offering for sale, advertising or in any manner dealing with goods, not limited to e-rickshaws, bearing the mark “DMW” or any other mark which is identical or deceptively similar to the plaintiff’s “BMW” trademarks.
Emerging preferences in trademarks amidst COVID-19 – Analysis of registrability and other related issues
Since February 2020, the Covid-19 (also known as Coronavirus) pandemic has been a major talking point and consequently many pandemic referenced words are being used as trademarks and are being filed for registration at Trade Mark Registries worldwide. The article analyses the various registrability issues pertaining with ‘Covid’ or ‘Corona’ referenced trademarks filed in India and other related issues that may pose difficulties in seeking the registration.
The Delhi High Court has upheld the CCI’s jurisdiction in matters concerning alleged anti-competitive practices for protection of the Patent Rights but at the same time upheld his previous decision clearly holding that the domain of CCI and Patent Controller are distinct and not necessarily in conflict.
In the case of Abhijeet Bhansali v. Marico Ltd.[1], the Division Bench of the Bombay High Court while dealing with the issue of disparagement of PARACHUTE COCONUT OIL by a video blogger, laid down the principles by which any such video or any statement can be considered to be defamatory.
A Single Judge of the Delhi High Court, in March 2020, examined whether trade secret protection can be granted to know-how with respect to a particular invention that has been patented outside India, in the case of Prof. Dr. Claudio de Simone &Anr. v. ActialFarmaceuticaSrl. (formerly known as CD Investment Srl.) &Ors. The Plaintiffs, Professor Dr. Claudio De Simone (Plaintiff no.1); and Next Gen Pharma India Pvt. Ltd.
In view of the recent COVID-19 outbreak, various Constitutional Courts as well as statutory bodies related to Intellectual Property Laws in India have announced several relief measures for the stakeholders. The said measures have been detailed hereinbelow, along with their implications.
Right to paternity of contribution in cinematographic film – Analysis of the CHHAPAK case
In the case of Fox Star Studios (Division of Star India Private Limited) v. Aparna Bhat & Ors.[ CM (M) 15/2020], a Single Judge of Delhi High Court vide its order dated 11th January 2020, held that once a person has contributed to any cinematographic film in any manner, then as per the moral rights, he/ she has right to paternity.
To Grant or Not to Grant Interim Injunction - Conflicting decisions by co-ordinate Benches of same High Court in pharmaceutical patent infringement suits
Two co-ordinate Single Judge Benches of the Delhi High Court have arrived at opposing conclusions as to whether to grant interim injunction or not in favour of the Plaintiffs/Patentee in a batch of patent infringement suits instituted by Astrazeneca AB and others against various Defendants[ Micro Labs Limited, Natco Pharma Limited, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Limited, Emcure Pharmaceuticals Limited and MSN Laboratories Limited.] in relation to a pharmaceutical composition.
In the case of Ferid Allani v. Union of India and Ors., a single judge of the Delhi High Court vide its order dated 12 December 2019, directed the Indian Patent Office (IPO) to re-examine the petitioner’s Indian patent application in the light of observations of the court on patent eligibility of computer-related inventions (CRIs).
Provisional anti-dumping measures in India – Overview of the law and practice
The article discusses the law and practice surrounding the provisional anti-dumping measures in India. It elaborately analyses the legal provisions, timelines for imposition of provisional anti-dumping duty (‘ADD’), and a few other practical aspects relating to imposition of such duty.
Anti-absorption measures: India’s foray into strengthening its anti-dumping enforcement
Anti-dumping measures are implemented by countries to protect their domestic industries from the negative effects of unfair trade practices, such as dumping. Dumping occurs when foreign manufacturers/exporters export a product to another country at a price lower than its normal value, often below the cost of production or selling prices in the exporting country.
Standing of applicant to constitute Domestic Industry – Standard of discretion
Under Indian anti-dumping law and practice, the qualification of the applicant domestic producers to constitute the domestic industry is sometimes a contested issue. The article in this issue of International Trade Amicus discusses some of the relevant jurisprudence on the issue of the DGTR’s discretion in determining the standing of a producer(s) under the relevant provisions.
Free Trade Agreements – Analysis of proposed amendment to Customs Section 28DA vide Finance (No.2) Bill, 2024
The article highlights the proposed amendment to Customs Section 28DA, relevant in case of imports under various Free Trade Agreements. The amendment substitutes the term 'Certificate of Origin' with 'Proof of Origin', and re-defines the term 'Issuing Authority'. The change is seen as a trade facilitation measure.
A legal analysis of plurilateral rule making at WTO
The article discusses the legal basis for plurilateral agreements and assesses their compatibility with the broader principles of multilateral rule-making at the WTO. It considers Articles III and IX of the Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the WTO and observes that such plurilateral joint initiatives have neither been blessed by the Ministerial Conference nor by the broader WTO Membership.
Cohen’s D test – An insight into the statistical tool used by the USDOC for determining targeted dumping
The article discusses how the Cohen’s D test is utilized by the United States Department of Commerce (USDOC) for analyzing the existence of targeted dumping. which refers to a specific trade practice where exporters sell their goods at an export price differing significantly among different purchasers, regions or time periods.
Navigating the European Union’s Green Trade Frontier: Decoding EU-CBAM for Indian exporters
The article discuss the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (‘CBAM’) which take care of carbon leakage which occurs when businesses start relocating industries to or products are imported from countries, with less stringent environment policies, apparently to circumvent the cost-intensive climate policies in the European Union. It discusses what are the scope, coverage, phase, timeline, and compliances required by exporters to the EU, in respect of certain goods.
Beyond territorial reach: Transnational subsidies and the evolving landscape
The article discusses the nature of transnational subsidies, in which a government of one country subsidizes a firm outside of its territory. It explores whether these subsidies can be acted upon under the WTO’s Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (SCM Agreement), and how certain countries such as the EU and the US are tackling these subsidies.
Anti-dumping duty – Overview of methodologies of calculating dumping margins
This article intends to discuss different methodologies for comparing the export prices with the domestic selling prices in the chosen investigation period, as prescribed under the WTO’s Anti-dumping Agreement and the practices followed in India, the United States of America and the European Union for this purpose. Elaborately discussing the three methodologies, with descriptive illustrations, etc., the author points out that the dumping margins are not the same.
The WTO’s 13th Ministerial Conference – Finding Order in times of chaos?
This article intends to provide an overview of some of the key issues for negotiation at MC 13 and the importance of these issues for WTO Members. It talks about Agreement on Investment Facilitation and Development, Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, Permanent Solution for Public Stockholding for Food Security Purposes, WTO Dispute Settlement Reform, and Electronic Commerce.
Trade remedial measures in India – 2023 year-end review
Trade remedy measures continue to remain a bulwark for the protection of the domestic industry from unfair imports. With the government’s increasing emphasis on the ‘Make in India’ objective and the Indian economy booming, trade remedy measures retain their importance as an instrument to balance the interests of domestic producers with that of users and importers.
CJEU invalidates Non-Preferential Rules of Origin – A ray of hope for Indian exporters of seamless stainless-steel pipes and tubes to EU
The article focuses on the implication of the recent judgement of the CJEU relating to the Non-Preferential Rules of Origin wherein the EU's Court has held that the primary rule for CTSH 7304 41 under the Rules of Origin is invalid to the extent it excludes the cold rolled processing performed on hot-rolled tubes or mother pipes classifiable under CTSH 7304 49. According to the author, as the EU market opens, this will give a significant boost to Indian exports from this sector
A question on ‘standing’ of the domestic producer in anti-dumping cases
On 29 September 2023, the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (‘DGTR’) issued the Final Findings (‘FF’) in Anti-dumping investigation concerning imports of ‘Metronidazole’ originating in or exported from China PR. The domestic industry (‘DI’) was represented by Aarti Drugs Ltd., (‘ADL’) who was one of the major domestic producers of Metronidazole (‘Product under consideration’ or ‘PUC’) in India.
Navigating the EU Deforestation Regulations: Scope, coverage and impact on Indian exporters
The article discusses the recently notified European Union Deforestation Regulation which is a set of comprehensive regulations targeting the imports and domestic production of products associated with deforestation. Observing that these regulations will also have implications for Indian exporters of commodities like coffee, chocolates, soy, and wooden furniture, the article provides a brief overview of the EUDR, what it entails, and explores its impact on Indian exports to the EU.
EU’s Non-Preferential Rules of Origin: A tool for determining origin of goods and promote fair trade
In the realm of global trade, the determination of a product’s origin holds immense significance. Origin not only affects tariffs but also impacts compliance with regulations, trade agreements, trade measures and market access. The European Union (‘EU’) Non-Preferential Rules of Origin provide a comprehensive framework to ascertain the origin of goods exported to the EU and play a pivotal role in shaping trade dynamics within the EU and its trade partners.
Circumvention of Trade Remedy measures – A critical analysis of Indian provision
Trade remedy measures are applicable only to specific products originating in certain countries. Sometimes exporters make changes in the business model to overcome the measures by circumventing the duties and thereby rendering the measures largely ineffective.
India loses the fight for electronic goods against EU at the WTO
The WTO panel recently ruled against India’s import duty measures in relation to certain Information and Communication Technology (‘ICT’) goods, holding the measures as inconsistent with Articles II:1(a) and (b) of the GATT 1994. The article analyses the critical arguments raised by India to defend its position and the panel’s ruling thereon.
Becoming trade remedies-ready – A practical guide for producers and exporters
When producers or exporters export goods to other countries, they most likely would have come across a trade barrier of some form or the other. While tariff walls have as such declined and non-tariff barriers have increased, importing countries continue to use trade remedial measures as a defense against imports. In fact, India and the United States are the leading users of trade remedial measures while imports from China are the major target of these trade remedial measures
Anti-dumping duty – CESTAT establishes important jurisprudence on commercial quantities
The article analyses a recent CESTAT decision relating to the threshold for considering a product within the scope of the product under consideration (‘PUC’) in anti-dumping investigations. The Hon’ble CESTAT has held that mere production of a product is not enough for it to be included in the scope of the PUC; the domestic industry must show that it has catered to a certain amount of demand for that product for it to be included. The article in this regard notes that ...
Is export restraint a countervailable subsidy? – Strict to liberal approach
The article discusses as to whether government action in the form of an export restraint on the export of a product results in a subsidy to the domestic producers of downstream products. It elaborately analysis WTO Panel report in United States - Measures treating export restraints as subsidies and the Appellate Body report in the dispute United States- Countervailing duty investigation on dynamic random-access memory semiconductors (‘DRAMS’) from Korea, and discuss how the trade authorities...
Retrospective amendments to Tribunal’s appellate jurisdiction under trade remedy laws: To be or not to be!
The retrospective amendments proposed by the Finance Bill, 2023 to Section 9C and other related provisions of the Customs Tariff Act, 1975 have tried to resolve the dispute regarding powers of the CESTAT to entertain appeals against the Ministry of Finance’s refusal to impose trade remedy measures despite positive recommendations from the DGTR. The article traces the background of the issue, the previous jurisprudence, the recent amendments proposed, and concludes with some comments.
The article elaborately analyses the recent imposition of definitive anti-dumping duty by the European Union on imports of fatty acid originating from Indonesia. The article tries to decode how the EU Anti-dumping Regulation deals with cases where the raw material prices are distorted and how the Commission in the present case implemented the said Regulations.
Beware of sharks in the water – Navigating trade in a world of sanctions
On 24 February 2022, Russian tanks and troops rolled into Ukraine, thus triggering the beginning of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine region and putting an end to the months of speculation regarding the possibility of war.
Playing on the wrong side – United States’ Section 232 measures held inconsistent with WTO law
The WTO Panel has held that USA’s additional duties on imports of steel products and aluminium products are inconsistent with various provisions of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (‘GATT’), most notably the security exception in Article XXI. The article discusses the panel’s key findings concerning the consistency of the US’ measures with GATT Article XXI which enables a WTO Member to take measures which are necessary for the protection of its essential security interests
In the previous article , we shed light on the nature and extent of Western sanctions. We explained that among the numerous measures adopted by the Western nations in response to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, unilateral sanctions have been employed as a primary instrument to economically penalize Russia and its allies such as Belarus.
Powers of Central Government in imposing trade remedial measures: Quasi-Judicial or Legislative?
Recently the Gujarat High Court in the case Real Strips v. Union of India had an occasion to decide the nature of powers exercised by the Ministry of Finance in deciding the imposition of countervailing duty. The article critically analysis the judgement of the High Court in the light of recent controversy surrounding the issue. The author analyses the issue on two metrics...
Reference-price based anti-dumping duty: The Indian perspective
Anti-dumping investigations are conducted to determine the existence of dumping which causes injury to the domestic industry in the investigating country. In simple language, dumping is the act of exporting the product at a price lower than the price at which the said product is sold in the domestic market of the exporting country, thus causing injury to domestic producers in the importing country.
Opening market access in government procurement through India-UAE FTA
In March 2022, India and UAE entered into a Free Trade Agreement. This Agreement is known as Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (‘CEPA’). Among different aspects of trade and investment that were negotiated and incorporated under this agreement, the chapter on government procurement stands out.
Notes from the WTO’s 12th Ministerial Conference – India saves the day
The World Trade Organization (‘WTO’) concluded the 12th Ministerial Conference (‘MC 12’) in Geneva on 16 June 2022. Being the first Ministerial Conference since the outbreak of the Covid pandemic in 2020 and being held after a more than four-year hiatus, MC 12 was one of the most anticipated Ministerial Conferences.
India and its recent comprehensive trade agreements – Attempting success for market access
In November 2019, the Government of India (‘GOI’) surprised the international trading community by withdrawing from the negotiations for the Regional Comprehensive and Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP), which it had been part of for several years.
Standard of review in sunset review investigation – CESTAT shines new light
In a sunset review investigation, the objective of the review carried out by the investigating authority is to determine whether there is a likelihood of continuation or recurrence of dumping and injury upon cessation of Anti-Dumping Duty (‘ADD’). Only if there is a likelihood, can the investigating authority recommend the continuation of ADD.
Exclusion of Standard-Compliant Products from the scope of the PUC – Final Findings in Welded Stainless Steel and Pipes
The article examines the recent Final Findings issued by the DGTR in the Mid-Term Review of countervailing duty on imports of Welded Stainless-Steel Pipes and Tubes (‘product under consideration’, ‘PUC’) from China PR and Vietnam. The author elaborately discusses the three reasons as listed by the DGTR while rejecting exclusion of specific grades of the PUC compliant with American Society of Mechanical Engineers-Bioprocessing Equipment (ASME-BPE) standards.
India – sugar subsidies: A bitter verdict at the WTO
On 14 December 2021, a dispute settlement panel of the World Trade Organization (‘WTO’) circulated its report concerning the subsidies allegedly granted and maintained by India in respect of sugar domestically produced and exported from India.
Finance Ministry’s decision not to impose anti-dumping duty – Blurred lines
Recently, the CESTAT (‘Tribunal’) had allowed an appeal against the Finance Ministry’s decision rejecting the Designated Authority’s recommendation to impose anti-dumping duty (‘ADD’) on imports of Choline Chloride originating in or exported from China PR. This decision of the Tribunal is significant as it is for the first time an appeal has been allowed against such a decision of the Finance Ministry.
Anti-absorption provisions: New tool for strengthening trade remedial measures
In Budget 2021-22, the Finance Minister announced the introduction of statutory provisions to check absorption of anti-dumping duty (‘ADD’) and countervailing duty (‘CVD’) measures imposed by the Central Government. These provisions were inserted into Section 9 and Section 9A of the Customs Tariff Act, 1975.
Imports by the domestic industry – Law and practice in India
Applications for initiating anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations are usually filed by or on behalf of the ‘domestic industry’. Therefore, one of the foremost requirements in any Anti-Dumping (‘AD’) or Countervailing Duty (‘CVD’) investigation is to identify the scope of the ‘domestic industry’.
Circumvention of ADD on ‘ceramic tableware and kitchenware, excluding knives and toilet items’ from China, by imports from Malaysia – A case analysis
The Designated Authority through anti-dumping investigation and vide Final Findings Notification dated 8 December 2017, had recommended imposition of anti-dumping duty (‘ADD’) on imports of Ceramic tableware and kitchenware, excluding knives and toilet items (‘subject goods’) originating in or exported from China PR.
To exclude or not to exclude: Practice on product exclusions
The defining feature of any trade remedial investigation is the product under consideration (‘PUC’). The PUC is not just the starting point of a trade remedial investigation but also the heart of it. In fact, when an application for initiation of an original investigation or even a review investigation is to be filed, the first aspect that needs to be clarified to the investigating authority is the scope of PUC. Therefore, the definition of PUC is of extreme importance.
Revision in requirements for applications by the domestic industry - A balancing act by DGTR
The provisions relating to conduct of anti-dumping and anti-subsidy investigations in India are contained in the Customs Tariff Act, 1975, and the Customs Tariff (Identification, Assessment and Collection of Anti-Dumping Duty on Dumped Articles and for Determination of Injury) Rules, 1995 (‘AD Rules’) and the Customs Tariff (Identification, Assessment and Collection of Countervailing Duty on Subsidized Articles and for Determination of Injury) Rules, 1995 (‘CVD Rules’) made therein under.
De-minimis dumping margin: Termination of an anti-dumping investigation?
On 7 May 2021, the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (‘DGTR’) concluded the anti-dumping investigation concerning imports of ‘Plain Medium Density Fibre Board having thickness 6mm and above’ (‘subject goods’) produced by Kim Tin MDF Joint Stock Company, Vietnam (‘Kim Tin’) by terminating the investigation. Though the termination of this investigation is not unusual, the reasons for the termination of the investigation are interesting.
ADD and CVD on goods removed from SEZ to DTA – ‘Missing link’ filled by Finance Act, 2021
Union Budget 2021-22 (‘Budget’) was one of the most anticipated budgets given that it was the first Union Budget to be presented after the onset of the COVID pandemic. In the Budget, while the Finance Minister announced the repeal/suspension of a number of existing anti-dumping duties (‘ADD’) and countervailing duties (‘CVD’), the Finance Minister also proposed several legislative measures for strengthening the existing ADD and CVD mechanisms. With the recent enactment of the Finance Act, 2021
Anti-absorption provisions – A new chapter in trade remedial investigations in India
Union Budget 2021-22 proposes introduction of anti-absorption provisions in the legal framework governing anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations. The article deals with questions like what is absorption, what is its purpose and the relevant changes as proposed in the Sections 9 and 9A of the Customs Tariff Act, 1975. The author also highlights the difference in the anti-absorption provisions for ADD and CVD and discusses certain aspects of the EU’s anti-dumping framework.
Retrospective imposition of anti-dumping duty in anti-circumvention investigations
The article discusses as to whether, in anti-circumvention investigation, the anti-dumping duty should be imposed retrospectively from the date of initiation of the such investigation or from the date of the final findings in the said investigation. Going through the recent decision of the Designated Authority the authors hold that though the Authority has rightly interpreted Rule 27 but, the soundness of the reason may come under challenge.
One step forward, two steps backward: Non-implementation of anti-dumping duty recommendations
The final findings issued by the DGTR are purely recommendatory in nature and come into force only after acceptance thereof and issuance of gazette notification imposing the levy within three months from the date of publication of the final findings in the gazette by the DGTR. The recent cases show that the MOF has been playing a more active role in exercising its discretion in deciding whether to impose anti-dumping duty.
Participation in trade remedy investigations – First impressions matter
An important facet of trade remedy investigations, especially, anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations is that if a producer/exporter from the country facing such investigation fully ‘cooperates’, the investigating authority acknowledges this and awards a duty basis the data presented by such party. This article aims to broadly explain ‘cooperation’ and the guidelines which a producer/exporter may keep in mind to ensure that their participation is treated as ‘cooperation’
Technical specification based product exclusion in mid-term reviews
The article discusses at length the provisions relating to Mid-Term Review (‘MTR’) of anti-dumping measures. Observing that MTR can even be requested by the user industry for excluding certain products from the scope of the product under consideration, where such product is of a technical grade that is not or cannot be produced by the domestic industry for the specific user requirements, the author elaborately examines a recent final finding of the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (‘DGTR’).
The ‘Mutuality’ of a mutually agreed solution under the Dispute Settlement Understanding
The article discusses an interesting proposition which arose in a recent dispute before the WTO’s DSB in the case United States - Tariff Measures on Certain Goods from China (DS543). According to the author, the Panel has clarified that for a solution to be accepted as a mutually agreed solution within the meaning of Article 12.7, the solution must be acceptable to both parties, i.e. should be mutual, and must resolve the issue at hand.
Suspension of lesser duty rule by the EU in anti-dumping investigations
The lesser duty rule may be suspended by the EU if there are distortions of raw materials price. Moreover, as per Article 7(2a), the lesser duty rule can only be suspended when a single raw material for which distortion is found accounts for not less than 17% of the cost of production of the product concerned. After these requirements of Article 7(2a) are met, it still has to go through the rigours of the Union interest test.
Implementation of Significant Distortions Methodology by EU in original anti-dumping investigations – Who’s next after China?
Significant distortions methodology on imports from China as per Article 2(6a) of the EU’s Basic Regulation has been applied in three original anti-dumping investigations. While individual producers/exporters continue to register their participation, there is no opposition/response from China during the investigations to avoid application of significant distortion methodology and as a result, exports from China face the same treatment as that of a non-market economy country.
Implementation of Significant Distortions Methodology by EU in review of anti-dumping duty on exports from China
The European Union (‘EU’) amended EU Regulation 2016/1036 of 08-06-2016 (‘the Basic Anti-dumping Regulation’) on 12-12-2017 through which it introduced Article 2(6a). Through this amendment, the EU created a possibility whereby actual domestic selling price and costs of producer/exporter can be rejected for determining normal value in anti-dumping investigations/reviews where there are ‘significant distortions of prices and costs’.
Introduction of Significant Distortions Methodology in the EU’s anti-dumping laws
Anti-dumping duty on the import of product cannot exceed the margin of dumping. Dumping margin is the difference between normal value and export price and is specific to the exporter concerned. Normal value means selling price in the domestic market of the exporting country in the ordinary course of trade.
“Reasonable Period of Time” for implementation of rulings and recommendations by DSB
In the International trade scenario, World Trade Organization (“WTO”) provides an operating framework which facilitates free trade between its member-countries. The Dispute Settlement Understanding (“DSU”) is a legal text containing the rules for dispute settlement in the WTO. The Dispute Settlement Body (“DSB”) comprising of representatives of all WTO Members, administers the DSU and is responsible for overseeing the entire dispute settlement process.
Circumvention provisions relating to anti-dumping duty – Analysis of recent amendments
Trade Remedy measures act as a shield for the domestic industries of importing countries, since they curb excessive and unfair imports into the country and allow healthy competition to exist. Since anti-dumping and countervailing duties target unfair imports, they are imposed on imports of specific goods ‘originating in or exported from’ specific countries.
Use of ‘Particular Market Situation’ provision in Anti-dumping Investigations
Article 2 of the WTO Anti-dumping Agreement provides for provision regarding determination of dumping. As per Article 2.1, a product is considered as being dumped if the export price of the product is less than the normal value. Article 2.1 of the Anti-dumping Agreement provides that domestic selling price of like article in the exporting country shall be considered as normal value.
Fast Track Merger: Regional Director does not have power to reject the Scheme
The article provides a detailed discussion of a recent Bombay High Court decision in Asset Auto v. UoI, which reviews the discretionary power provided to the Regional Director of the central Government in respect of fast-track mergers provided under Section 233 of the Companies Act, 2013. According to the High Court, the Regional Director does not have the power to outrightly reject the scheme.
Anti-Dilution – Balancing the ills of a Down Round
The article discusses the anti-dilution rights which is the most common armour provided to investors against a down round funding raised by any company. These can be exercised in two ways - the first being full ratchet anti-dilution protection while the second is weighted average method of computation.
Investors’ outlook on agritech in India: An interview with Omnivore’s Managing Partner
Agritech start-ups in India have been successful in attracting funding from numerous investors including but not limited to large multinational companies, consumer funds, and generalist venture capital firms.
The first article elaborately discusses a recent circular issued by SEBI that will be applicable for a scheme of merger, demerger, amalgamation or arrangement filed with the stock exchanges after 17 November 2020. The authors analyse the key implications of the circular, like additional factors which need to be considered by the audit committee, requirement of a recommendation in the form of a report from the committee of independent directors of the listed company.
Interplay between foreign taxpayers’ global profits and PE profit attribution
The article discusses the issue of attribution of profits in case of losses at the global level, which has once again gathered spotlight as the Delhi High Court in Hyatt International Southwest Asia Limited has expressed its prima facie disagreement with the decision in Nokia Solutions and has referred the issue to a Larger Bench. Discussing Article 7 of the DTAA and Rule 10 of the Income Tax Rules, the authors state that the LB decision will have a major impact.
Deciphering tax puzzle of loan-to-equity conversions
Businesses nowadays are coming up with pioneering strategies to keep afloat amidst financial stress. One of the common modes of financial structuring these days is conversion of loans into equity shares. The said option not only results in significant interest cost savings but also elevates the financial position for attracting new investments.
Demystifying SPACs Is the time ripe for Indian companies to list on overseas bourses?
Goldman Sachs backed Renew Power - one of India’s largest renewable energy companies, finally announced overseas listing through SPAC after long drawn discussions on raising funds through asset sale or listing through an IPO in India.
Investors’ outlook on agritech in India: An interview with Omnivore’s Managing Partner
Agritech start-ups in India have been successful in attracting funding from numerous investors including but not limited to large multinational companies, consumer funds, and generalist venture capital firms.
The article highlights the recently introduced Startup India Seed Fund Scheme for providing financial assistance to startups and the measures taken by the SEBI under the Innovators Growth Platform (‘IGP’) framework. A recent amendment in the Companies (Compromises, Arrangements and Amalgamations) Rules by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, further simplifying the restructuring avenue for startups, also forms part of this article.
Government Nod must for FDI from bordering countries
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Government of India (“DPIIT”) had vide press note 3 of 2020 dated April 17, 2020 (“Press Note 3”) amended the extant foreign direct investment (FDI) policy dated August 28, 2017. As per Press Note 3, the amendment was introduced with an aim to curb opportunistic takeovers of Indian companies by persons or entities (directly or indirectly) of any country which shares a land border with India (“Bordering Country”) during difficult times.
FDI Policy revised to curb opportunistic takeovers
The extant COVID-19 pandemic has been plaguing individuals and industries alike. The Government of India has, with a view to curb opportunistic takeovers/acquisitions of Indian companies due to the COVID-19 pandemic, reviewed and revised the extant foreign direct investment (“FDI”) policy dated August 28, 2017 (“FDI Policy”), issued by the Department for Promotions of Industry and Internal Trade (“DPIIT”) vide press note 3 of 2020 dated April 17, 2020.
Taxation of real estate transactions: A post-budget analysis
The article summarises the amendments related to capital gains tax made to simplify the characterization of long-term assets, computation of gains and application of tax rates which will have a significant impact on taxpayers transferring their capital assets on or after 23 July 2024. The authors also highlight key aspects which warrant taxpayers’ attention.
The article discusses the applicability of Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1996 (‘BOCW Act’) to factories wherein construction activity for the purpose of expansion or constructing godowns is being undertaken.
Fact Check Unit amendment invalidated – Intermediaries in the line
The article discusses a recent decision of the Bombay High Court striking down the amendment to Rule 3(1)(b)(v) of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2023. The Rule required intermediaries to remove content relating to Government business flagged by an Fact Checking Unit as fake, false, or misleading.
PRAVAAH's role in facilitating regulatory synergy across financial entities
The article discusses the role of PRAVAAH portal in facilitating how to regulate synergy across financial entities. PRAVAAH Portal is a single window mechanism for submission of application/information in an electronic format to the RBI for seeking various approvals.
MEITY Advisory: Dawn of AI Regulation in India or a false start
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has on 15 March 2024 issued an advisory on use and deployment of artificial intelligence tools. The advisory subsumes a previous advisory dated 1 March 2024 on this subject. As part of the now expanded diligence requirements as per new advisory, the article elaborately discusses what the new advisory now requires the intermediaries to ensure.
Plastic Waste Management Rules revised – Analysis of significant changes
The article analyses recent amendments in the Plastic Waste Management Rules. According to the authors, the changes represent the Central Government’s acknowledgement of the gaps in the regulatory framework for plastic waste management. The article in this regard discusses changes like clear distinction being drawn between producers and importers, clarity on applicability of EPR Guidelines to export products, and elimination of conflicting interpretations of labelling requirements, etc.
Dark Patterns can be referred to as the deceptive web or UI designs or patterns commonly used in web based or mobile based platforms, intended to manipulate, or trick the decision of a consumer by deceiving them to do something that is determinantal to his interest and something that the consumer otherwise would not do, compromising consumer’s autonomy, decision-making power, and his privacy. Some of the widely used dark patterns include subscription trap, false urgency, and click and bait.
Dark patterns are deceptive user interface/ user experience (‘ UI/UX ’) designs (such as pre-selected checkboxes and variations in visual prominence) which induce users to make purchases (or otherwise act in ways) that they did not initially intend. The article discusses as to how they were designed to mislead the consumers, and what are the restrictions on the use of Dark patterns in EU, USA, and now in India.
Cross-border payments for Indian businesses – Impact of RBI’s new guidelines
The Reserve Bank of India (‘RBI’) vide Notification No. RBI/2023-24/80 CO.DPSS.POLC.No.S-786/02-14-008/2023-24 dated 31 October 2023, has issued a new regulatory framework for Payment Aggregators of Cross Border Transactions (‘PA-CB Regulation’). The said regulation shall govern all entities, including AD Banks, engaged in the processing / settlement of cross-border payment transactions for import and export of goods and services.
The Digital India Act (DIA) is set to replace the Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act) on account of a transformed internet landscape today, with significant internet penetration, multiple intermediaries operating across the internet and complex forms of user harms. The article hence discusses the glimpse into the Digital India Act, as presented recently by the Minister of State for Electronics & Information Technology. The authors in this regard discuss how the DIA lays importance...
Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2022: An overview
In the backdrop of India’s commitments made in the UN Climate Change Conference in 2021, the Central Government has recently enacted the Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2022 (‘Amendment Act’) to amend the two decades old Energy Conservation Act, 2001. The move aims to strengthen the regulatory framework on energy consumption and promote energy efficiency in the country. The article highlights the significant features...
The new Rules will come into force on 1 April 2023 and will introduce recycling targets in the extended producer responsibility (‘EPR’) plan of the producers of e-waste. The article elaborately discusses major changes and the widened scope as compared to the earlier 2016 Rules. The authors discuss the registration requirements, reduction of compliances on bulk consumers, introduction of recycling certificate, introduction of refurbishing certificate and deferred liability, and penal provisions
The State of Tamil Nadu has recently promulgated an Ordinance Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Online Gambling and Regulation of Online Games Ordinance, 2022 for the regulation of online gaming in the State. The Ordinance prohibits online gambling and playing of online games of chance with money or other stakes. The State government through a Schedule under the Ordinance has also identified ‘rummy’ and ‘poker’ as games of chance...
Amendment to the Intermediary Guidelines: Increased due diligence and grievance redressal
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (‘MEITY’) notified the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2022 on 28 October 2022 (‘Amendment’) which introduces certain enhanced due diligence obligations for intermediaries, changes in timeline and grievance redressal procedures and constitution of grievance appellate committees.
The Department of Telecommunications has released the Draft Telecommunications Bill, which proposes a comprehensive framework governing licensing of telecommunication services, right of way, standards for public safety and national security, user safety apart from other provisions. The Bill aims to develop a future-ready legal framework that aligns telecommunication law with international standards and best practices, recognizing the importance of national, cyber security and public safety.
Payment recovery mechanism against erring foreign importers
Since 1991, the opening of Indian markets during the liberalization, privatization and globalization drive in India led to a boost in international/ foreign trade. However, as is said, every coin has a flip side. With increasing globalization and international trade, the risk of non-payment/ non-realization against the exports made to the foreign importers has increased accordingly.
Advent of a new-era Digital India Act – Key aspects to look out
The Government is in the process of drafting a ‘Digital India Act’ which is slated to replace the Information Technology Act, 2000 and propose a comprehensive framework for IT, regulation of social media platforms, streaming platforms, govern use and deployment of new technologies and introduce certain other provisions. The article highlights the focal points of this regulation and provides some thoughts on each of those aspects.
Prevention of misleading advertisements – Analysis of guidelines issued by Central Consumer Protection Authority
The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 (‘Act’), which came into force on 20 July 2020, defines ‘misleading advertisement’ in relation to any product or service.
Recently, the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (‘MEITY’) released a draft amendment (‘Draft Amendment’) to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 (‘Guidelines’) for public consultations. The Draft Amendment proposes to bring about certain changes to the grievance redressal mechanism, timelines for responding to grievances and proposes constitution.
Analyzing the new CERT-IN Directions: Wider gamut than breach reporting
The CERT-IN has released a set of Directions dated April 28, 2022 under the Information Technology Act (“Directions”) which relate to reporting of cyber security incidents and adopting additional measures towards protection of the IT and internet ecosystem in India. The article discusses the directions, enhanced obligations and new obligations introduced under the Directions for virtual private networks, virtual private servers and virtual asset providers.
‘Fall-back liability’ under the Consumer Protection (e-Commerce) Rules, 2020: Stricter norms in digital diaspora
It is no surprise that within a short span of time e-commerce has had a tremendous impact on consumers all over the world. Such dramatic change in the current environment for both businesses and consumers has also posed new challenges, which made it imperative to bring a codified legislation to cater to the interests of the consumers of the e-commerce space.
Prepaid Instruments – An analysis of master directions issued by RBI
Banks regulator, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), on 27 August 2021, issued the Master Directions on Prepaid Payment Instruments (‘MD PPI’) to introduce significant changes to the existing legal regime pertaining to the prepaid instruments (PPI) viz., under the Master Directions on Issuance and Operation of Prepaid Payment Instruments (‘2017 MD’).
Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2021: Wading through the Uncharted Territory of Plastic Waste Management
Plastic has numerous uses and its physical and chemical properties lead to economic success. However, our relationship with plastic is complicated, as the use of plastic impedes such commercial success in the long run, in terms of impacting the environment. The social advantages of plastic are irrefutable, it has come to occupy a central position in our day-to-day lives. However, the unsystematic removal of plastic has become a significant danger to the environment.
Proposed E-commerce Amendment Rules – Whether reasonable to comply with?
The Government of India through its Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, in exercise of its powers conferred under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 had notified the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020 (‘E-commerce Rules’). The Government has now, on 21 June 2021, proposed certain amendments in the E-commerce Rules and is receiving comments or suggestions from the stakeholders.
Strike one on social media platforms – The new guidelines and what they mean
The article discusses the recently issued IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 by the MEITY. Elaborately analysing the salient features of the Rules, including definitions, due diligence mechanism, grievance redressal by intermediaries, significant social media/ messaging intermediaries, code of ethics in relation to digital media, grievance redressal mechanism by publishers, etc., the article also points out certain shortcomings of the Rules.
Farm Acts and agritech: Is the time ripe for the agri sector to bloom?
The key challenges faced by the Indian agriculture industry are small farm holdings, low penetration of farmer producer organisations, lack of agri-data and low price realisation by the farmer.
Agritech: A much-needed digital revolution for the agri sector
The agricultural sector has seen significant developments in the past few years: government reforms, major solutions offered by the onset of technology, post-COVID changes in consumer preferences, legal changes warranted by the new Farm Acts.
Investments in agritech sector: An analysis of the last decade
The agritech sector has witnessed significant growth in investments over the last few years. In the last decade (2010-2019), the sector bagged a cumulative capital flow of US$ 1.9bn.
The need of the hour is a shift from production-centric agricultural practices to market-centric agricultural practices and giving market access to all the farmers, particularly smallholding farmers.
In recent years, food processing is seen as a sunrise sector in India. With a view to enhance private investment in the food processing sector, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries has been implementing several schemes for creation of infrastructure, expansion of processing capacity, and other supporting measures for healthy growth of the food processing industry.
Regulating the foreign contribution: Changing regime
The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 was enacted to regulate the acceptance and utilization of foreign contribution. Foreign contribution refers to the donation, delivery or transfer of any article, currency or security by any foreign source. With an objective to streamline the provisions under FCRA by enhancing transparency and accountability in the receipt and utilization of foreign contributions, the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2020 was passed by recently.
Confusion on ‘essential commodities’ in the time of lockdown
Several lessons are being learnt from the experience of lockdown amidst COVID-19.It also exposed varioussoftspotsin Indian laws and executive orders.Questioning the authority on such technicalities would have been termed insensitive and may have caused unnecessary hurdles to secure the recovery from the pandemic.
Government Nod must for FDI from bordering countries
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Government of India (“DPIIT”) had vide press note 3 of 2020 dated April 17, 2020 (“Press Note 3”) amended the extant foreign direct investment (FDI) policy dated August 28, 2017. As per Press Note 3, the amendment was introduced with an aim to curb opportunistic takeovers of Indian companies by persons or entities (directly or indirectly) of any country which shares a land border with India (“Bordering Country”) during difficult times.
FDI Policy revised to curb opportunistic takeovers
The extant COVID-19 pandemic has been plaguing individuals and industries alike. The Government of India has, with a view to curb opportunistic takeovers/acquisitions of Indian companies due to the COVID-19 pandemic, reviewed and revised the extant foreign direct investment (“FDI”) policy dated August 28, 2017 (“FDI Policy”), issued by the Department for Promotions of Industry and Internal Trade (“DPIIT”) vide press note 3 of 2020 dated April 17, 2020.
Regulatory aspects of Blood plasma therapy in COVID-19 scenario – Should we have woken up earlier?
Indian Council of Medical Research (hereinafter referred as the ‘ICMR’) has recently come up with letter of intent inviting hospitals and institutions to participate in randomized controlled study of Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in critically infected covid-19 patients. This is also being referred to as the ‘Convalescent Plasma Therapy’.
The global sports market is an estimated $600 billion industry1, comprising of infrastructure, events, training, manufacturing and retail. The scale and revenue-generating opportunities are most visible during marquee international sporting events.
COVID-19 – Analysis of Price Fixation Orders under Essential Commodities Act
As the country went into the lockdown, the authorities had a task of keeping supply chains of commodities like masks and sanitizers, active and running - the products essential in the country’s fight against the pandemic Covid-19. Further, the new-found demand for sanitizers and masks also initially led to an increase in their prices. Whereas, the availability of masks and sanitizers of right quality and right prices is essential in combating pandemic Covid19.
Digital payments - Revised framework on monetary penalties is a step towards transparency
India has seen rapid advancement in the FinTech industry in the last couple of years leading to increased number of transactions, entry of number of non-banking players, availability of multiple online payment modes, etc. This evolving sector is majorly regulated by the Reserve Bank of India by way of issuance of guidelines, directions, policies, instructions from time to time.
Fund raising challenges of startups under the Companies Act
The article discusses a recent decision of the Registrar of Companies, NCT of Delhi and Haryana relating to Section 42 of the Companies Act, 2013 (private placement of shares). The Adjudicating Officer has in this decision observed that the provision requires that the company should adhere to the limit of 200 persons not just with respect to the number of persons who ultimately subscribe to the securities of the company, but also that this limit cannot be exceeded at the time of making an offer
The Initial Public Offering (‘IPO’) market has been booming ever since the dawn of 2020. As per the latest EY Global IPO Report, the year 2021 has been the best IPO year since the last 20 years.
SEBI’s new norms for related party transactions – An overview
In this article, we will be reviewing the changes made by Securities and Exchange Board of India (‘SEBI’) in the related party transaction (‘RPT’) regime for listed entities. On 9 November 2021, SEBI issued the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) (Sixth Amendment) Regulations, 2021 (‘Amendment Regulations’),
Issuance and transfer of securities – Stamping requirements
The Finance Act, 2019 introduced various amendments to Indian Stamp Act, 1899. Further, the Indian Stamp (Collection of Stamp-Duty through Stock Exchanges, Clearing Corporations and Depositories) Rules, 2019 was also introduced. With respect to transfer of shares where no consideration amount is involved, a cost-effective mechanism has been introduced since such transfer does not attract stamp duty. Possibility of availing benefit of this can be explored in transactions such as gift of shares.
The first article elaborately discusses a recent circular issued by SEBI that will be applicable for a scheme of merger, demerger, amalgamation or arrangement filed with the stock exchanges after 17 November 2020. The authors analyse the key implications of the circular, like additional factors which need to be considered by the audit committee, requirement of a recommendation in the form of a report from the committee of independent directors of the listed company.
Convertible Notes – A case of square pegs in a round hole!!
Given the dynamic and volatile nature of India’s start-up ecosystem, start-up(s) are always in the look-out for innovative and cost-effective fund-raising opportunities. To promote start-up(s), the government also upgrades regulatory norms and practices, in alignment with prevalent economic conditions and market dynamics.
Section 11A of the CGST Act: Old wine in new bottle?
This article examines the need and scope of the new Section 11A as proposed by the Finance (No. 2) Bill, 2024, and the potential challenges foreseeable by insertion of said provision in the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017.
Development Rights: A service or a condition precedent to sale of land
The divergent perspectives on the treatment of development rights; whether as a service or an outright sale, have led to confusion in the realm of land transactions. Therefore, while finality is anticipated from the constitutional courts in GST regime, it is prudent for businesses to take an informed call on the taxability of development rights.
Tax relief on Grants: Not to be taken for grant-ed!
The article notes that given the voluntary and unilateral nature of a grant, there exists ambiguity whether provision of a grant qualifies to be a taxable supply under the GST law, as to qualify as a supply it is essential that a good or service is provided for a consideration. The authors observe that it needs to be examined on case-to-case basis, whether the provision of the grant in a particular arrangement has its strings attached to the service provided and the consideration paid.
The equivocal nature of the advisory regarding Input Tax Credit (ITC) reversal under Rule 37(A)
The article discusses the conflicting nature of a recent Advisory issued by the GSTN in respect of ITC reversal on account of new CGST Rule 37(A). The authors in this regard discuss various ambiguities surrounding this Advisory, like the period to be considered for computation of amount of ITC to be reversed, whether data of GSTR 2A or GSTR 2B is to be considered, etc. According to them, there is a requirement of detailed guidelines.
A tale of tax technology and GST matching woes: Balancing idealism and pragmatism
The article discusses the problem of absence of mechanism for matching Input Tax Credit (‘ITC’). It analyses a recent Rajasthan High Court decision in the case of Hindustan Lever Ltd., where the practicality of this matching exercise has come into question and observes that while on one hand, requiring suppliers to collect certificates or proof from recipients may lead to administrative inefficiencies, on the other hand, allowing businesses to claim reductions in tax liability...
Interplay between foreign taxpayers’ global profits and PE profit attribution
The article discusses the issue of attribution of profits in case of losses at the global level, which has once again gathered spotlight as the Delhi High Court in Hyatt International Southwest Asia Limited has expressed its prima facie disagreement with the decision in Nokia Solutions and has referred the issue to a Larger Bench. Discussing Article 7 of the DTAA and Rule 10 of the Income Tax Rules, the authors state that the LB decision will have a major impact.
The DTAAs , as per ‘Article 1 – Personal Scope’, applies to those persons who are residents of either of the two country. Article 4 of the DTAA defines the term ‘resident of a contracting state’. Article 4(1) of the OECD Model Convention of 2017 inter-alia provides that the term ‘resident of a contracting state’ means any person under the laws of that state, is liable to tax therein by reason of his domicile, residence, place of management or any other criteria of similar nature.
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