GST Framework: Registration, Refunds and Demand Provisions

Fraud versus non-fraud demands is the sharpest distinction the GST procedural architecture draws, because it determines penalty quantum under Sections 73–74 of the CGST Act, 2017. Section 22 sets registration thresholds; Section 54 governs refund claims for zero-rated supplies and inverted duty structures; Section 56 enforces refund timelines through interest. Cascading tax is eliminated through input tax credit chains. The GST Council under Article 279A amends these procedures. Where Section 73 covers non-fraud demands, Section 74 applies where fraud or wilful misstatement is alleged, attracting a higher penalty.