2020 (2) TMI 1069 - AT - Service Tax

Penalty under Finance Act, 1994 for service tax shortfall deemed unjustified. Importance of accurate tax compliance highlighted.

The penalty imposed under Section 76 of the Finance Act, 1994 on the appellant for short payment of service tax was deemed unsustainable by the learned ... Imposition of penalty u/s 76 of FA - short payment of service tax - service tax paid on being pointed out - however, appellant did not pay the interest before issuance of the show cause notice, which was paid before adjudication - HELD THAT:- In the impugned order the sole reason for imposing penalty by the learned Commissioner (Appeals) is that the basic contravention of rule in this case is non-declaration of correct taxable value in their ST-3 returns for the period 2015-2016 and short payment of service tax for the said period therefore, penalty is imposable on the appellant. The appellant has paid service tax at the time of audit and during the relevant period, there were different rates of service tax payable by the appellant on the services provided. Due to that reason, the appellant could not pay service tax correctly and as pointed out by the audit, the appellant paid service tax and later on interest was also paid - the penalty under Section 76 of the Finance Act, 1994 is not sustainable against the appellant - Appeal allowed - decided in favor of appellant. Issues: Penalty under Section 76 of the Finance Act, 1994Analysis:The appellant, engaged in construction and manpower recruitment services, was penalized Rs. One lakh under Section 76 of the Finance Act, 1994 for short payment of service tax. An audit revealed the discrepancy, leading to the appellant paying the tax and interest. The adjudicating authority initially dropped the proceedings, but the penalty was imposed on appeal by the Revenue. The main contention was the non-declaration of correct taxable value in ST-3 returns for 2015-2016 and the subsequent short payment of service tax. The learned Member (Judicial) noted the varying service tax rates applicable during the period, which caused the incorrect payment. Consequently, the penalty was deemed unsustainable, and the impugned order imposing the penalty was set aside, allowing the appeal.This judgment highlights the importance of correct tax declaration and payment in service-related businesses, emphasizing the need to comply with tax regulations. The decision also underscores the significance of circumstances affecting tax payments, such as fluctuating tax rates, in determining the applicability of penalties under the Finance Act, 1994.