Government Can Waive Penalties and Late Fees Under Section 128 of CGST Act 2017 for Settled Tax Liabilities

Section 128 of the CGST Act, 2017 authorizes the government to waive penalties under Sections 122, 123, or 125, or late fees for delayed return filings under justifying circumstances. If tax payable for the period from July 1, 2017, to March 31, 2020, is settled by the specified date, no interest or penalty is due, concluding proceedings. However, this waiver does not apply to erroneous refunds or pending appeals not withdrawn by the notified date. Payment of additional tax as per higher authorities' orders must be made within three months, and no refund of interest or penalty is permitted.