Banks in a GST fix over RBI's directive to levy penal charges

The Reserve Bank of India's directive to levy penalties only in the form of 'penal charges' is posing a tax dilemma for banks. Banks fear that the indirect tax on such levies would attract the goods and services tax (GST). The new rule, which came into force from April 1, 2024, was brought in by the central bank to ensure "reasonableness and transparency" in disclosure of penal interest. However, banks have asked the tax authorities to spell out their stand on the issue.