This article explores Chapter 17 of the CGST Rules, which outlines procedures for inspection, search, and seizure. The information is sourced from the official CBEC document: [http://www.cbec.gov.in/resources//htdocs-cbec/gst/cgst-rules-01july2017%20.pdf].

Inspection, Search, and Seizure Process

If a proper officer, holding a rank not lower than a Joint Commissioner, has justifiable reasons to suspect that an inspection, search, or seizure is necessary at a business or other premises under Section 67, they must issue an authorization. This authorization, issued in FORM GST INS-01, empowers a subordinate officer to carry out the inspection, search, or seizure of goods, documents, books, or other items subject to confiscation.Should any items be subject to seizure as per sub-section (2) of Section 67, the designated officer or an authorized officer is required to issue a seizure order using FORM GST INS-02.For safekeeping, the proper officer or authorized officer may entrust the seized goods or items to their owner or custodian. This individual is prohibited from moving, disposing of, or otherwise interfering with the goods without the officer's prior consent.If seizing the goods is impractical, the officer may issue a prohibition order (FORM GST INS-03) to the owner or custodian. This order forbids them from relocating, parting with, or otherwise handling the goods without explicit permission from the officer.The officer responsible for seizure must create a detailed inventory of all seized goods, documents, books, or other items. This inventory should include details like description, quantity, unit, make, mark, or model, as relevant, and must be signed by the person from whom these items were seized.

Provisional Release of Seized Goods: Bond and Security

Provisionally, seized goods can be released if a bond (FORM GST INS-04) for their value is executed, and a bank guarantee is provided as security. This security must cover the payable amount of applicable tax, interest, and penalties.As defined by this Chapter's rules, "applicable tax" encompasses Central Tax, State Tax, or Union Territory Tax, along with any cess due under the Goods and Services Tax (Compensation to States) Act, 2017.If the individual who provisionally received the goods fails to present them at the designated time and location, the provided security will be encashed. This amount will then be used to settle any outstanding tax, interest, penalty, and fines related to those goods.

Handling Perishable or Hazardous Seized Items

For seized goods that are perishable or hazardous, immediate release is possible if the taxable person pays an amount equivalent to either their market price or the total tax, interest, and penalty potentially owed, whichever sum is less. This release is granted via an order in FORM GST INS-05 upon confirmation of payment.Should the taxable person fail to make the payment specified in sub-rule (1) for these goods or items, the Commissioner is authorized to dispose of them. The proceeds from this disposal will be applied towards any outstanding tax, interest, penalty, or other amounts due for those goods.