Recording reasons in writing is mandatory before blocking input tax credit under Rule 86-A; later explanations cannot cure the defect.

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....Blocking of input tax credit under Rule 86-A requires the competent authority to record reasons to believe in writing before exercising the power. The High Court held that a bare statement alleging fraudulent availment of ITC, without disclosure of the supporting reasons in the order itself, is a jurisdictional defect. Reasons supplied later through affidavit or instructions could not cure the invalidity, because the legality of the order must be tested on the reasons recorded at the time of decision. The blocking order was set aside, with liberty to pass a fresh order in accordance with law.....