HC ruled that detention of vehicle under Section 129 of CGST...

HC ruled that detention of vehicle under Section 129 of CGST Act, 2017 was invalid. The statutory provision requires actual transportation of goods in contravention of law, which was absent in this case. Mere possession of an e-way bill without corresponding goods movement does not justify vehicle impoundment. The court strictly interpreted the penal provision, emphasizing that detention requires substantive evidence of statutory violation. Consequently, the court directed immediate release of the detained vehicle, finding the respondents' action ultra vires and without jurisdictional basis.