11/02/2025
Here are a few strong grounds to contest orders passed under Section 74 of the GST Act, based on the cited judgments:
1. Absence of Mens Rea (Intent to Evade Tax)
Case: Bhagya Kalita - Gauhati High Court (2025) 170 taxmann.com 54
If the show cause notice does not explicitly establish wilful suppression, misstatement, or fraud, the entire proceedings become unsustainable.
Courts have held that mere procedural lapses or unintentional errors do not justify invoking Section 74, which requires fraudulent intent.
2. Violation of Natural Justice – No Proper Opportunity of Hearing
Case: Agmotex Fabrics (P.) Ltd. - Allahabad High Court (2024) 169 taxmann.com 2
Orders passed without granting the assessee a fair hearing or disregarding their explanation are deemed illegal.
Courts have emphasized that tax authorities must pass reasoned orders after considering the assessee’s submissions.
3. Violation of Natural Justice – No Personal Hearing
Case: Prakash Iron Store - Allahabad High Court (2024) 169 taxmann.com 698
If an assessee requests a personal hearing and it is denied, the order can be set aside for procedural irregularity.
Even in cases of ITC claim errors, a genuine mistake should not be equated with fraud under Section 74.
4. Defective Show Cause Notice – Consolidated Notice for Multiple Periods
Case : Albatross Builders and Developers LLP - Karnataka High Court (2024) 169 taxmann.com 598
A single consolidated show cause notice covering multiple years is legally unsustainable.
Authorities must issue separate notices for each financial period, ensuring clarity and compliance with GST law.
5. Improper Service of Show Cause Notice – Only Uploaded on GST Portal
Case: SRT Fuels - Madras High Court (2025) 170 taxmann.com 446
If a show cause notice is only uploaded on the GST portal without proper physical or electronic service, the demand order is invalid.
The law mandates proper service of noticeunder GST rules, and mere portal uploads do not fulfill this requirement.
These grounds can be effectively used to challenge Section 74 orders before appellate authorities or High Courts. Let me know if you need further details or case references.
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