JK Tyre’s Appeal Rejected In ₹80.6 Million GST Dispute Over Machinery Lease Credits

Image Source : The Financial Express

JK Tyre & Industries Ltd has received an adverse ruling from the Commissioner (Appeals), CGST & Central Excise, Bhopal, in a long-standing dispute over input tax credit (ITC) claims related to machinery lease rentals. The company’s appeal against a ₹80.6 million tax demand has been dismissed, prompting plans for further legal escalation.

Dispute Background And Financial Implications

- The case pertains to ITC claimed on machinery lease rent amounting to ₹8.78 crore, with an equal sum levied as interest and penalty
- The original GST order was issued in March 2024, and JK Tyre filed an appeal in May 2024
- The appellate authority upheld the reversal order, maintaining the total financial implication of ₹17.56 crore
- JK Tyre has stated that the issue is legal in nature and does not materially impact its operations or financial health

Company’s Response And Next Steps

- JK Tyre maintains that its ITC claim was compliant with GST norms and plans to challenge the ruling before higher authorities
- The company clarified that no additional penalties or restrictions have been imposed beyond the disputed tax reversal
- It continues to cooperate with tax authorities and has initiated internal reviews to strengthen compliance frameworks

Strategic Outlook

While the ruling adds to JK Tyre’s legal burden, the company remains confident in its position and expects resolution through judicial recourse. The matter underscores ongoing complexities in GST interpretation, especially around capital goods and lease arrangements.

Sources: StudyCafe, Business Upturn, NDTV Profit.