Section 129(1) of the CGST Act imposes civil penalty for...

Section 129(1) of the CGST Act imposes civil penalty for substantive contraventions of transit movement-document requirements without requiring independent proof of intent to evade tax. Authorities must nevertheless assess the taxpayer's explanation and distinguish material discrepancies from minor or technical errors. A sale during transit may occur without prior physical receipt by an intermediary, but the continuing movement must be supported by a valid e-way bill accurately stating the actual origin and destination. E-way bills that do not cover the diverted route, falsely identify the dispatch point, or have expired may constitute substantive non-compliance. Payment through DRC-03 to secure release of goods does not conclusively admit liability or waive statutory appeal rights and may be credited against any liability.