Cancellation of GST registration could not be sustained where...

Cancellation of GST registration could not be sustained where the petitioner's reply to the show cause notice was already on record but was not considered before the adverse order, as that defect offended natural justice. The High Court directed that the cancellation order be treated as a suspension of registration pending de novo adjudication, with the petitioner's reply examined on merits and an opportunity of hearing afforded. The department was left free to continue investigation and proceed in accordance with law for tax recovery or penalty.