What can be done for C form evaders

country is full of criminal minds and connive to get GST credit by raising fake bills etc.

Same is the case with buyers who import goods on C form but issue the same and vanish in thin air thanks to rampant corruption.

Please suggest how such thugs are brought to justice.
Replies (1)
C Forms were applicable under the pre-GST Central Sales Tax (CST) regime. Since GST was implemented from 1st July 2017, C Forms are no longer applicable for post-GST transactions. However, for pre-GST outstanding C Forms, here is the position:

1. C Forms Still Relevant for Pre-GST Periods: If goods were sold on inter-state basis before July 2017 at concessional CST rate (2% against C Form), and the buyer has not issued C Forms, the seller faces demand for differential tax at full applicable VAT rate (usually 4-14.5%) plus interest and penalty.

2. Legal Remedy Against C Form Evaders:
- File a civil suit for recovery of differential tax liability if the buyer promised to provide C Forms as per the sales contract.
- Lodge a complaint with the commercial tax department of the buyer's state requesting enforcement action.
- The selling state's VAT department may issue a demand — negotiate with buyer to settle.

3. Practical Steps:
- Send formal legal notice to the buyer demanding C Forms or compensation for the differential tax liability.
- Approach the respective State Commercial Tax Department (now largely merged with GST departments) to check if C Form issue is still possible through their portal.
- Most states had portals for C Form issuance — check if the portal is still active for old period filings.

4. Note: With many state VAT departments winding down, resolution of old C Form disputes is time-sensitive. Pursue legally without delay.

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