In case of ambiguity, assessee must prove eligibility for tax exemption: SC

The five-member bench was constituted to look into what is the rule to be applied while interpreting a tax exemption provision or notification when there is an ambiguity

In a judgment that will benefit the revenue department, a Constitution bench of the Supreme Court on Monday said tax assessees will have to show clear proof to the Revenue Department that they are eligible for availing a tax exemption and the benefit of any ambiguity in exemption provision/notification would fall in the favour of the tax man.

The five-member bench, comprising Justices Ranjan Gogoi, NV Ramana, R Banumathi, Mohan M Shantanagoudar and S Abdul Nazeer, was constituted to look into what is the rule to be applied while interpreting a tax exemption provision or notification when there is an