No GST Transition Benefits From 22 Sept; CBIC Calls Viral Social Media Post Misleading

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) on Sunday dismissed a viral social media message that claimed new GST transition benefits would take effect from 22 September. The board called the claims ‘false and misleading’.

In a statement on X, CBIC clarified that no such provisions are under consideration. It further urged the public to avoid relying on unofficial messages.

CBIC Clarifies Rules

CBIC said it had noticed an informal message claiming to be from its chairman, suggesting transition benefits under GST. The viral post mentioned unutilised cess credit, ITC on exempted supplies, and new price adjustment provisions.

“It is hereby informed that such claims are factually incorrect and misleading,” CBIC stated.

It further asked the trade, industry, and citizens to refer only to government-issued notifications, circulars, and FAQs for accurate updates.

Fact-Check: Viral Message Misleading

The viral message had wrongly suggested that unused cess credit could be used and that ITC benefits on exempt supplies would be allowed. It also mentioned a new price adjustment policy.

CBIC confirmed that no such GST transition benefits exist.

The government has already implemented major GST reforms. It reduced the earlier four-rate structure to two slabs of 5 per cent and 18 per cent.

The 12 per cent and 28 per cent slabs were scrapped, while luxury and sin goods such as tobacco and cigarettes continue to attract a special 40 per cent rate.

CBIC emphasised that only official sources should be trusted for information on GST reforms.

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