CESTAT allowed the appellant's appeal challenging the refund...

CESTAT allowed the appellant's appeal challenging the refund claim rejection. The Tribunal found the Commissioner (Appeals)' reasoning incorrect regarding service tax liability for club services, particularly after referencing the Supreme Court's Calcutta Club judgment. The decision invalidated prior rulings on service tax applicability and unjust enrichment principles. Relying on precedent from Karnavati Club Ltd., the Tribunal determined that unjust enrichment theory was inapplicable in this context. Consequently, the impugned order was set aside, and the refund claim was permitted, effectively vindicating the appellant's tax position.

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