PM Modi Welcomes New GST Reforms, Says Simpler Procedures, Decriminalisation Will Strengthen Trust-Based Tax Administration

October 8, 2026 10:34 PM

PM Modi Welcomes New GST Reforms, Says Simpler Procedures, Decriminalisation Will Strengthen Trust-Based Tax Administration

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday welcomed the new round of GST reforms approved by the GST Council, saying the recommendations on removal of arrest provisions, greater decriminalisation and simpler procedures would have a positive impact on taxpayers and businesses and advance the government’s efforts towards a more efficient, transparent and citizen-friendly tax regime. PM Modi posted on X: “I welcome the new round of GST reforms approved by the GST Council. The Council’s recom...

GST Council removes arrest powers of tax officers, eases compliance rules for businesses

October 8, 2026 7:20 PM

GST Council removes arrest powers of tax officers, eases compliance rules for businesses

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council on Thursday approved a series of taxpayer-friendly reforms, including the removal of arrest powers from tax officers and a significant increase in the prosecution threshold to Rs 5 crore from the existing Rs 1 crore. The decisions were taken at the 57th meeting of the GST Council chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the national capital on Thursday. Addressing reporters after the meeting, FM Sitharaman said the Council focused on proc...