The HC set aside an assessment order dated 19.12.2024 for...

The HC set aside an assessment order dated 19.12.2024 for violating principles of natural justice due to ineffective service of show cause notice. While uploading notices on the GST Portal constitutes valid service, the respondent failed to explore alternative service modes under Section 169 of the GST Act when petitioner remained non-responsive. The court held that merely fulfilling empty formalities without ensuring effective communication defeats the purpose and leads to multiplicity of litigation. The matter was remanded to respondent for fresh consideration, conditioned upon petitioner paying 25% of disputed tax amount within four weeks. The petition was allowed by way of remand, emphasizing that officers must apply their minds to ensure meaningful service rather than mechanical compliance.