Archive · 5 Oct 2026
Modi Says Next GST Reform Phase Will Simplify Compliance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi says the next round of GST changes should make tax rules easier to follow.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman described possible changes to registration, tax returns, refunds, disputes and input tax credit.
The government says these changes could save taxpayers time and money.
It also says the reforms are intended to help businesses and households.
The GST Council was expected to discuss the proposals at a meeting on October 7.
The Council may also consider removing a rule that lets tax officials arrest taxpayers during investigations.
Officials have said the proposal follows concerns about misuse of that power.
No decision on these proposals is reported.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the next phase of GST reforms would make compliance easier and improve refunds.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said proposed changes cover registration, returns, refunds, disputes and input tax credit.
The government says the reforms aim to reduce taxpayers’ compliance time and costs while supporting businesses and households.
The GST Council was due to meet on October 7, ahead of which the next reform phase was outlined.
The Council may consider removing officials’ power to arrest taxpayers during GST investigations under Section 69.
- Who
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and the GST Council.
- What
- The next phase of GST reforms is intended to simplify compliance; the Council may also consider removing officials’ power to arrest taxpayers during investigations.
- When
- Modi made the remarks on Monday, October 5; the GST Council meeting was expected on October 7. The article does not specify the year for these dates.
- Where
- India.
- Why
- To reduce the time and cost of tax compliance, improve refunds and support businesses and households; the proposed arrest-power change follows concerns about misuse.
- Tax system
- Goods and Services Tax (GST)
- Proposed process areas
- Registration, returns, refunds, dispute resolution and input tax credit
- GST Council meeting
- Expected on October 7
- Rate rationalisation effective date
- September 22, 2025
- Arrest provision under discussion
- Section 69 of the GST regime
- Potential change
- Removing tax officials’ power to arrest taxpayers during GST investigations