By C.N. Vaze
Chartered Accountant
Here is a story of a raid by Excise authorities. I am told this is a true incident that occurred in Pune.
Mr. Joshi was a hardcore technocrat but an accomplished businessman, very disciplined and upright, and uncompromising on his principles. His business of manufacturing certain engineering goods was very prosperous. Mr. Joshi believed in clean and transparent financial records. Therefore, his company’s Chartered Accountant never had any difficulty completing his audit, submitting all documents and other forms under any law, tax payments, and other compliances. The CA’s fees also used to be paid regularly and in time, within seven days from receiving his invoice.
All the workers and staff members of Mr. Joshi’s company were well trained, satisfied with the working conditions, happy with the remuneration and naturally, loyal to the company. In short, it was a dream situation for all concerned - a role model. The assessments of income and all other revenue laws were very smooth.
The Revenue authorities were rather unhappy with this type of an assessee. They had no ‘incentive’ in this case. Mr. Joshi did not mind fighting up to the highest forum for justice. If there was anything unfair in any law, he had the courage to raise his voice against it and approach the Government for necessary amendments. The Revenue authorities used to think twice before raising any objection on his records or his stand.
In short, Mr. Joshiâ