Punjab, Chandigarh lawyers, CAs form GST tribunal bar

Advocates and chartered accountants practising in Goods and Services Tax (GST) matters in Punjab and Chandigarh have joined hands to establish the GST Appellate Tribunal Bar (GSTATB), a body aimed at representing the collective interests of professionals appearing before the GST Appellate Tribunal.

The newly formed Bar will provide a common platform for GST practitioners to raise professional concerns, address issues affecting litigants and improve coordination among advocates and chartered accountants practising before the Tribunal.

CA Alok Krishan has been unanimously nominated as the president of the organisation. Advocate Chetan Jain has been appointed secretary for the GSTAT Chandigarh region, while Advocate Amit Bajaj will serve as secretary for the GSTAT Jalandhar region.

During the meeting, members discussed several issues concerning the functioning of the Tribunal, including virtual hearings and procedural challenges faced by litigants and legal professionals.

The members decided to submit representations to the concerned authorities from time to time, highlighting these concerns and seeking appropriate measures to ensure fair, transparent and speedy resolution of GST-related disputes.

The formation of the GST Appellate Tribunal Bar is expected to strengthen professional coordination and provide a collective voice to practitioners while addressing practical difficulties faced by litigants in the GST appellate system.