Union Budget 2026 Expectations
CA Jitendra Patel, Partner – Indirect Tax at N. A. Shah Associates LLP, shares his Union Budget 2026 expectations on GST reforms :-
“Since the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), the authorities have issued multiple amendments, notifications, and circulars with the intent of resolving practical difficulties faced by businesses and ensuring uniformity in tax administration. However, despite the best of efforts by them, divergent interpretations and inconsistent implementation at the field level continue to create significant challenges for taxpayers.
In many cases, authorities have taken positions contrary to clear statutory provisions, notifications, and departmental clarifications, resulting in unwarranted demand notices and a substantial increase in litigation. The lack of consistency across tax authorities particularly in matters relating to valuation and procedural compliance has diluted the core objective of GST, which was envisioned as a simple and dispute-minimizing tax regime.
Businesses, especially those operating across multiple States, are frequently subjected to parallel proceedings by both Central and State authorities for the same tax period. This duplication leads to excessive compliance burden, increased costs, and avoidable disputes. Trade bodies advocate for a centralized or coordinated audit framework to avoid overlap, streamline administration, and reduce litigation. Additionally, the system should move towards a transparent, faceless, and taxpayer-friendly administration.
In summary, industry reiterates the need for a GST administration that prioritizes simplicity, consistency, reducing litigation, and a trust-based approach to governance, in line with the original vision of the GST framework.”
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