A state tax department issued approximately 6,000 GST demand...

A state tax department issued approximately 6,000 GST demand notices to traders based on UPI transaction data, alleging non-registration despite turnover thresholds requiring GST registration. The notices are preliminary, allowing recipients to respond with evidence of exemptions or compliance before final demands are made. Traders' associations protested, calling for strikes and boycotts of digital payments, citing confusion and lack of prior warning. The tax authority emphasized the legality and procedural fairness of the notices, stating they follow natural justice principles and offer multiple opportunities for response and clarification. Concerns were raised about the use of UPI data alone without distinguishing exempt goods or services, leading to calls for clearer guidelines, better communication, and nuanced enforcement to prevent undue hardship on small traders. The department affirmed ongoing efforts to educate and assist traders regarding GST obligations.