Section 80GGC deduction depends on proving that a payment to a...

Section 80GGC deduction depends on proving that a payment to a political party was a genuine contribution. Payment through banking channels and the recipient's registration are relevant but not conclusive. Genuineness may be assessed through the test of human probabilities, including evidence that the donee issued false receipts or returned donations, inconsistencies in the claim, incomplete bank records, failure to provide requested information, and non-response to enquiries. On such cumulative material, a deduction may be disallowed without relying solely on third-party statements. A challenge limited to the initiation of penalty proceedings is premature.