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18% GST payable on EPC services provided to Govt owned Electricity Supply Companies (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-
service-tax/18-gst-payable-epc-services-provided-govt-owned-electricity-supply-companies.html)
₹11,990
Case Law Details
Case Name : In re Manipal Energy & Infratech Ltd. (GST AAR Karnataka)
The services provided by the applicant to the Electricity Supply Companies (wholly owned Government of Karnataka Undertakings) by way
of construction erection, commissioning, installation, completion, etc. are not covered under entry 3(vi)(a) of the Notification No.12/2017-
Central Tax (Rate) dated 28.06.2017 (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-tax/notify-supplies-eligible-refund-unutilized-itc-igst-act.html) or
under entry 3(vi)(a) of the Notification No.8/2017-Integrated Tax (Rate) dated 28.06.2017 (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-
tax/integrated-tax-rate-fertilisers-reduced-12-5.html) as amended from time to time and consequentially are not eligible to be taxed at a lower
rate of 12% GST and hence are liable to be taxed at 18% GST.
Read AAAR Ruling in this case- 18% GST on commercial services to electricity distribution companies (https://taxguru.in/goods-
and-service-tax/18-per-cent-gst-commercial-services-electricity-distribution-companies.html)
ORDER UNDER SECTION 98141 OF THE CGST ACT, 2017 & UNDER 98141 OF THE KGST ACT, 2017
1. M/s Manipal Energy and Infratech Limited., (called as the ‘Applicant’ Company hereinafter), having GSTIN number 29AAHCM0173A1ZT,
have filed an application for Advance Ruling under Section 97 of the CGST Act, 2017 & Section 97 of the KGST Act 2017, in FORM GST
ARA-01 discharging the fee of Rs.5,000/-each under the CGST Act & the KGST Act.
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2. The applicant company has sought advance ruling in respect of the following question:
3.1 The Applicant, is a Company, registered under the Goods and Services Act, 2017, engaged in the activity of undertaking civil
construction, mechanical structural work, erection of equipment, electrical infrastructure including substations, etc. The applicant also
undertakes operation & maintenance of Waste Water Treatment Plants, Flocculation systems, Reverse Osmosis, Effluent Treatment Plants,
Drinking water facilities, Zero Liquid Discharge Plants.
3.2 The Applicant (MEIL) is engaged in civil construction, mechanical structural work, erection of equipment, electrical infrastructure
including substations etc. MEIL also undertakes operation and maintenance of Waste Water Treatment Plants, Flocculation Systems
Reverse Osmosis, Effluent Treatment Plants, Drinking Water Facilities, Zero Liquid Discharge Plants, etc.
3.3 The Applicant regularly bids for the tenders floated by various electricity companies. In the instant case, the applicant participated in the
tenders floated by some of the electricity distribution companies based in Karnataka i.e., Hubli Electricity Supply Company Limited
(hereinafter referred to as “HESCOM”), Mangalore Electricity Supply company Limited (hereinafter referred to as “MESCOM’) and Bangalore
₹11,990
Electricity supply company Limited (hereinafter referred to as “BESCOM”).
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₹26,990 ₹28,990
3.4 The Applicant, upon participating in the tender, has been awarded the following contracts by MESCOM:
a. Contracts for “Strengthening of Distribution Networks in Udupi Circle of MESCOM, Karnataka under Integrated Power Development
₹26,900Scheme (IPDS) on turnkey basis” vide letter number SE(T)/EEE(APR)/IPDS-SS/2017-18/CYS-3 darted 28.04.2017 and vide letter
₹62,999
number SEM/EEE(APR)/IPDS-SS/2017-18CYS-4 dated 28.04.2017.
b. Contract for the work of providing infrastructure to regularized unauthorized IP sets by extending lIKV FIT Lines, LT 3 phase 4 wire
lines, erection of BEE 3 Star Rated 25/63KVA distribution transformers on total turnkey basis under rate contract for a period of one
year in urban section of Shikaripura O&M Sub-division vide letter number MESCOM/SEE(P)/EE9W) 2017-18/2823-33 dated
11.05.2017.
c. Contract for “Rural Electrification and System Strengthening works in Udupi District of MESCOM, Karnataka under Deen Dayal
Upadhyaya Gram Jyothi Yojana (DDUGY) on turkey basis” vide letter number SECTREE(APR)/DDUGY-RE/ 2017-18/ CYS-11 dated
28.04.2017.
Similarly, the applicant, upon participation in the tender, has been awarded the contract by BESCOM for the work of providing infrastructure
to regularized unauthorized IP sets by extending 11KV HT Lines, erection of 2SKVA 3 star rated distribution transformers and extension of
LT line 3 phase 4 wire on Total Turnkey basis under rate contract for a period two year in Kolar division on percentage basis.
Also, the applicant upon participating in the tender has been awarded the contract by HESCOM for strengthening works in 8 Nos. of towns.
in Belagavi circle of Belagavi District in HESCOM of Karnataka State under integrated power development scheme (IPDS).
4.1 Strengthening of Destitution Network in Udupi Circle of MESCOM, Karnataka under Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS)
4.1.1 The contract for ‘detailed work award’ comprises of two parts: First part being the supply of goods and second part the supply of
services. Para 4 of Schedule-IV of the ‘detailed work award’ deals with ‘scope of works’. As per pare 4.1 of the ‘detailed work award’ the
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digital marketing skills has been defined in Section -VII of Volume-I of the tender document The relevant paras of the scope of work as per the
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tender document is extracted below:
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2.0 The following works are proposed for improvement of Distribution Network under IPDS on Total Turnkey basis in following towns of
Udupi Circle. Viz Udupi Town. Saligrama Town, Kundapura Town and Karkala Town.
3.0 The scope of work under the subject package includes site survey, planning, design, engineering, assembly manufacturing, testing,
supply, loading, transportation unloading, insurance, delivery at site, handing, storage, installation, testing, commissioning and
documentation, of all items/ material required to complete the Electrification works.
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5.0 Any other items not specially mentioned but which are essentially required for satisfactory performance and completeness of work,
shall be deemed to be included in the scope of specifications and works and the same shall be executed/ carried out by the bidder at
no extra cost to the MESCOM.
6.0 The works in each division are handled by concerned engineer in-charge of the 0 & M Division/ Authorized assistants, The
measurements of the works executed by the contractor should be certified by the Engineer In-charge.
7.0 Successful bidder has to carry out the works as per the directions of Engineer In-charge of concerned division duly following
MESCOM norms and regular practice being adopted for construction of HT/LT Lines, Erection of Distribution Transformers, Re-
conducting, Augmentation of Line/Transformers and other proposed works using detailed approved estimate available in
O&M divisions of respective Towns.
8.0 Entire works shall be executed in strict conformity with the contract documents and such explanatory detailed or
modified drawings and directions as may be furnished from time to time by the Engineer in charge for the guidance of the
contractors.
All equipment/ material to be supplied and under this contract shall be procured exclusively for this particular project only.
9.0 Engraving of ?PDS’ should be done in materials viz, Poles. Transforms (all Rating), Cables. Energy Meter, etc Procured for this
works.
₹11,990
10.0 All Materials Released from the existing system/ lines of the proposed project, has to be corresponding MESCOM Divisional
Stores. The Payment in this regard will be admitted only after receipt of store acknowledgment.
4.1.2 A brief scope of work provided under this contract requires MEIL to undertake ‘Inland transportation (specified equipment and material)
to final destination at site, insurance, taking delivery, unloading, handling storing and supply including associated civil work, testing and
commissioning of all equipment and materials supplied by the contractor and documentation of all items/material required to complete
₹26,990 ₹28,990
strengthening of distribution network in the towns of Udupi Circle viz., Udupi, Karkala, Saligrama, Kundapura towns’.
4.2 Providing infrastructure to regularized un-authorized IP sets in urban and rural section of Shilcaripura O&M Sub-division.
4.2.1 Para 3 of the proposal letter number MESCOM/SEE(P)/EE(W) 201718/2823-33 dated 11.05.2017 issued by MESCOM to MEM deals
with ‘scope of work’. The relevant paras of the ‘scope of work’ reads as follows:
₹8,990 ₹22,149
i. The scope of the works covered under this package is strictly for the work of providing infrastructure to the regularized un-authorised
IP involving the works like Drawing & Commissioning of 11 kV Lines, Installing & Commissioning of 25/63 KVA DTCs, Drawing Z&
Commissioning of L7′ 3 phase lines on total turnkey basis under Rate contract for the period of one year in Urban & Rural Sections of
₹26,900Shikaripura
₹62,999 O&M Sub-division, Shikaripura O&M division as specified on the bid documents.
ii. The Scope of this Proposal is on 707’AL TURNKEY BASIS’ wherein all the materials/ equipment to be supplied shall be as per IS &
MESCOM specification and the services required for the completeness of the works as per specifications come under the scope of the
contractor. This shall completely cover packing, forwarding, supply of Materials on FOR Site basis including Insurance and
Transportation. Erection, Testing at Site and Commissioning.
4.2.2 From the above it is clear that the work under consideration is a turnkey infrastructure work.
4.3 Rural Electrification and System Strengthening works in Udupi District of MESCOM, Karnataka under Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram
Jyothi Yojana (DDUGY).
4.3.1 The contract for ‘detailed work award’ comprises of two parts. First part being the supply of goods and second part the supply of
services. Para 4 of Schedule-IV of the ‘detailed work award’ deals with ‘scope of works’. As per pars 4.1 of the ‘detailed work award’ the
‘scope of work’ has been defined in Section -VII of the Volume-I of the tender document. The relevant paras of the scope of work as per the
tender document is given below:
1.0 The scope of work under the subject package includes site survey, planning, design, engineering, assembly manufacturing, testing,
supply, loading, transportation, unloading, insurance, delivery at site, handling, storage, installation, testing commissioning and
documentation of all items/ materials required to complete the Electrification works.
2.0 The details of the Equipments to be supplied, transported, erected, assembled, tested & Commissioned are indicated in Price
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Schedule. (Refer, Vol-U, Price Schedule). The quantities indicated in the price schedule are only approximate and may increase or
decrease and prices quoted by the bidder are deemed to be valid in spite of such variations in the quantities at the time of award of
contract.
3.0 Any other items not specially mentioned but which are essentially required for satisfactory performance and completeness of work.
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Shall be deemed to be included in the scope of specifications and works and the same shall be executed/ carried out by the bidder at
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no extra cost to the MESCOM.
4.0 The works in each division are handled by concerned engineer in- charge of the 0 & M Division/ Authorized assistants. The
measurements of the works executed by the contractor should be certified by the Engineer In-charge.
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5.0 Successful bidder has to carry out the works as per the directions of Engineer In-charge of concerned division duly following
MESCOM norms and regular practice being adopted for construction of HT/ LT Lines, Erection of Distribution Transformers. Re-
Conductoring, Augmentation of Line/ Transformers and other proposed works using detailed approved estimate available in O&M
divisions of respective Blocks.
6.0 Entire works shall be executed in strict conformity with the contract documents and such explanatory detailed or modified drawings
and directions as may be .furnisheel from time to time by the Engineer in charge for the guidance of the contractors. All equipment/
material to be supplied and used under this contact shall be procured exclusively for this particular project only.
9.0 Engraving of DDUGLY. should be done in materials viz, Poles, Transformers (all Rating), Cables, Energy Meter, etc procured for
this works
10.0 All materials Released from the existing system /line of the proposed project, has to be returned to corresponding MESCOM
Divisional Stores. The Payment In this regard will be admitted only after receipt of store acknowledgement.
4.3.2 A brief scope of work provide under this contract, again, requires MEIL to undertake ‘Inland transportation (specified equipment and
material ) to final destination at site, insurance, taking delivery, unloading, handling, storing and supply including associated civil work,
testing and commissioning of all equipment and materials supplied by the contractor and documentation of all items/material required to
complete Rural Electrification 8s System Strengthening works in Udupi District.
₹11,990
5 Contracts with BESCOM
5.1 Contract for the work of providing infrastructure to regularize unauthorized Irrigation Pump (19 sets in Kolar division.
5.1.1 The contract for providing infrastructure comprises of two parts. First part being the supply of goods and second part the supply of
services..
In terms of para 1 of the proposal number BESCOM/CGM(Proj)/DGM-4/BC-14/17-18/3750-59 dated 16.11.2017 the description of work
includes “erection, testing and commissioning of materials for providing electrical infrastructure to regularize Unauthorized 111
₹26,900 ₹62,999
sets” by extending 1 IKV HT lines, erection of 25KVA 3 star rated Distribution Transformers and extension of LT line , 3 phase, 4 wire, on
total turnkey basis under rate contract for a period of two years in Kolar division.
6.1 Strengthening works in 8 Nos, of towns in Belagavi Circle of Belagavi District in HESCOM of Karnataka State under integrated power
development scheme (IPDS)
6.1.1 In terms of para 8 and para 6 of the “Detailed Work Award” for supply and erection portion the ‘scope of work’ has been defined in
Section-VI! of Volume-I of the tender document. The relevant parts of the scope of work as per the tender document is given below:
2. Execution of all other works as per tender document. All Steel structure shall be hot dip galvanized as per relevant Indian Standard.
3. The Distribution Transformers must be BIS certified in line with Electrical Transformers (Quality Control) order, 2015 (along with its
latest amendments).
4. A set of drawings are enclosed with this bid document, These are tender drawing and are to be approved by the Project Manager.
These drawings are indicative in nature and therefore, must be referred while preparing drawings for approvaL
8. It is submitted that the relevant entry in the Rate Notification which covers the service by way of construction, erection, commissioning,
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under Chapter
under the guidance of… Heading 9954 being services provided to Electricity Supply Companies (wholly owned Government of Karnataka
undertaldng)
@UpGrad_Edu by way of construction, erection, commissioning, installation, etc’. is entry 3(vi)(a), which provides for the rate of GST at 12%.
The relevant portion of the entry reads as follows:
SL.
Heading Description of Services Rate Condition
No
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Heading 9954 (vi) Composite supply of works contract as defined in clause (119) if section 12% Provided that where the
2 of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, provided to the Central
services are supplied to a
Government, State Government, Union Territory, a local authority or a Government Entity, they
government, authority by way of construction, erection, commissioning, should have been procured by
installation, completion, fitting out, repair, maintenance, renovation, or the said entity in relation to a
alteration of- work entrusted to it by the
(a) A civil structure or any other original works meant predominantly Central Government, State
for use other that n for commerce, industry, or any other business or Government, Union territory or
profession; local authority, as the case
may be.
(b) A structure meant predominantly for use as (i) an educational, (ii)
a clinical, or (iii) an art or cultural establishment; or
(c) a residential complex predominantly meant for self-use or the use
of their employees or other persons specified in paragraph 3 of the
Schedule 111 of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act,2017.
Explanation. – For the purposes of this item, the term ‘business’ shall not
include any activity or transaction undertaken by the Central
Government, a State Government or any local authority in which they are
engaged as public authorities.
9. In the alternative, entry 3(ii) to the Notification, provides applicable rate of GST Q. 18% on works contract service. The relevant entry
₹11,990
reads as follows:
Si.
Heading Description of Services Rate Condition
No
10. In the above factual matrix, the applicant seeks a ruling, on whether service provided to various Electricity Supply Companies (wholly
₹8,990 ₹22,149
owned Government of Karnataka undertakings) shall be covered under entry 3(vi)(a) to the Notification No. 08/2017- Integrated Tax (Rate)
dated 28.06.2017 (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-tax/integrated-tax-rate-fertilisers-reduced-12-5.html), which covers the services
provided to Government by way of by way of construction, erection, commissioning, installation etc. of civil structure or any other original
works meant predominantly for use other that for commerce, industry, or any other business or profession and thus subject to 12% rate of
₹26,900 ₹62,999
Integrated Tax. This application is being filed under the apprehension that the services provided to electricity supply companies by the
Applicant could be treated by the GST authorities as an entry falling under SL.NO. 3(ii) no Notification No. 8/2017-Integrated Tax (Rate)
dated 28.06.2017 (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-tax/integrated-tax-rate-fertilisers-reduced-12-5.html) (as amended) which provides
applicable rate of GST @ 18% on works contract and consequentially subject to higher rate of tax at 18%.
11. Grounds to support the understanding of the Applicant that the transaction is subject to tax under Entry No. 31vi1ial to
Notification No. 8/2017-Integrated Tax (Rate) dated 28.06.2017 (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-tax/integrated-tax-rate-
fertilisers-reduced-12-5.html) (as amended) which provides for applicable rate of Integrated Tax at the rate of 12%.
A. THE SERVICES UNDER CONSIDERSATION CONSTRUCTION SERVICES COVERED UNDER SAC 9954
A.1. The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has released Explanatory Notes to the Scheme of Classification of
Services on 11.06.2018. The Scheme of Classification of Services adopted for the purposes of GST is a modified version of the United
Nations Central Product Classification (UNCPC). The Explanatory notes for the said Scheme of Classification of Service is based on
the explanatory notes to the UNCPC, and as recommended by the committee constituted for the purpose. The explanatory notes
indicate the scope and coverage of the heading, groups and service codes of the Scheme of Classification of Services. These ae used
by the assessee and the tax administration as a guiding tool for classification of services.
A.2. Heading 9954 covers construction services. Sub-heading 995425 covers General construction services of local pipelines and
electricity & communication cables and related works such as local electricity transmission cables and ancillary works such as
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transformer stations and substations for distribution within local boundaries. Sub heading 995461 covers electrical installation services
including electrical wiring & fitting services, fire alarm installation services burglar alarm installation services, which includes installation
services of heavy electrical equipment; and other electrical installation services not elsewhere classified.
A.3. In the facts of the present case, the Applicant undertakes the following work for various electricity distribution companies:
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Strengthening of Distributions Networks which includes site survey, planning, design, engineering, assembly manufacturing, testing,
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supply, loading, transportation, unloading, insurance, delivery at site, handling, storage, installation, testing, commissioning;
Providing infrastructure to regularized unauthorized IP sets by extending 11KV HT, involving the works like Drawing & Commissioning
of Electrical Lines, Installing & Commissioning of 25/63 KVA DTCs, Drawing & Commissioning of LT 3 phase lines, LT 3 phase 4 wire
lines, erection of BEE 3 Star Rated 25/63KVA distribution transformers;
Rural Electrification and System Strengthening works includes construction of HT/ LT Lines, Erection of Distribution Transformers, RE-
Conductoring, Augmentation of Line/Transformers, etc.
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A.4. The above services are covered under the sub-headings 995461 and 995461, which are in-turn covered under the broad heading
9954. It is therefore submitted that the services provided by the Applicant are covered under heading 9954 and hence the tax for
supply of services by the Applicant to the electricity distribution companies must be determined based on the rate of tax applicable for
supplies under such heading.
B. SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE APPLICANT TO ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION COMPANIES ARE COMPOSITE SUPPLY OF
WORKS CONTRACT AS DEFINED UNDER CLAUSE (119) OF SECTION 2 OF THE CGST ACT,, 2017
B.1. In terms of Section 2(119) of the GST Act, works contract means a contract for building, construction, fabrication, completion,
erection, installation, fitting out, improvement, modification, repair, maintenance, renovation, alteration or commissioning of any
immovable property wherein transfer of property in goods (whether as goods or in some other form) is involved in the execution of
such contact.
B.2. In terms of the above provision, an activity of supply is treated as works contract only if the following conditions are fulfilled:
Sl.
Criteria Answer Remark
No.
1 Whether the supply is under a contract? Yes If the answer for all the questions
is “Yes”, then such contracts
₹11,990
2 Whether there is transfer of property in goods involved while executing such
contract?
Works Contracts
₹26,990B.3.
₹28,990
It is submitted that as per the factual matrix, the supply of services is under a contract entered into between MEIL and the
electricity distribution companies. It is established from the work orders that there is a transfer of property in goods involved while
executing the contracts.
B.4. In terms of the above, the third questions needs to be examined critically, as to whether the work undertaken by the applicant
₹8,990results
₹22,149
in emergence of an immovable property. There is no definition to the term immovable property’ under GST legislations. Hence,
we need to understand the expression immovable property to the context of taxation laws.
B.5. In this regard reference is made to Section 3(26) of the General Clauses Act, 897, which provides definition of immovable
property. It reads:
₹26,900 ₹62,999
`Section 3(260: “immovable property” shall include land, benefits to arise of land, and things attached to the earth, or
permanently fastened to anything attached to the earth.”
B.6. Section 3(26) of the General Clauses Act includes within the definition of the term “immovable property” things attached to the
earth or permanently fastened to anything attached to the earth. The term “attached to the earth” has not been defined in the General
Clauses Act, 1897. Section 3 of the Transfer of Property Act, however, gives the following meaning to the expression “attached to the
earth” as:
c. attached to what is so imbedded for the permanent beneficial enjoyment of that to which it is attached.
B.7. In the instant case, the construction, erection, commissioning installation, etc. of civil structure for supply of power qualifies all the
attributes of immovable of property.
B.8. The Honble Supreme Court while dealing with the matter in the case of Commissioner of Central Excise v. Solid and Correct
Engineering Works [2010 (252) E.L.T. 481 (S.C.)), prescribed the following parameters/ tests that may be considered while identifying
if a property is immovable or movable:
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i. Test of permanency is whether the chattel is movable to another place
of use in the same position or is liable to be dismantled and re-erected at the latter place. If the answer to the latter is yes, it is
attached to the earth and is an immovable property.
ii. Whether the machine erected at the site could be shifted as such without dismantling and then re-erecting it at another site, If
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the entire structure as a whole cannot be moved without dismantling and that the very act of dismantling will cause damage to
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the various components, then the structure is an immoveable property.
iii. When the components of a machinery are fuced, embedded or assimilated in a permanent structure, the movable character of
the same becomes extinct, Where a plant has to be assembled, erected and attached to the earth by a foundation and it is not
capable of being sold as it is, without anything more, the same does not constitute “goods” and becomes immovable property.
B.9. In Commissioner of Central Excise, Indore v. Virdi Brothers – 2007 (207) E.L.T. 321 (S.C.) Rouble Supreme Court has
referred to Circular No. 58/1/2001-CX., dated 15.01.2002, wherein it was clarified as follows:
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“………..
(d) Integrated plants/ machines, as a whole, may or may not be ‘goods’. For example, plants for transportation of material (such as
handling plants) are actually a system or a network of machines, The system comes into being upon assembly of its component. In
such a situation there is no manufacture of ‘goods’ as it is only a case of assembly of manufactured goods into a system. This cannot
be compared to a fabrication where a group of machines themselves may be combined to combined to constitute a new machine
which has its own identity/ marketability and is dutiable (e.g. a paper making machine assembled a site and fixed to the earth only for
the purpose of ensuring vibration free movement).
(e) If items assembled or erected at site and attached by foundation to earth cannot be dismantled without substantial damage to its
components and thus cannot be reassembled, then the items would not be considered as moveable and will, therefore, not be
excisable goods.”
B.10 In T.T.G. Industries Ltd., v. Collector of /Central Excise, Raipur [2001 (167) E.L.T. 501 (S.C.)] Hon’ble Supreme Court noted
that the machinery was erected at the site by the assessee on a specially made concrete platform at level of 25 feet height.
Considering the weight and volume of the machine and the processes involved in its erection and installation, the Court held that the
same was immovable property which could not be shifted without dismantling the same.
B.11. English law imparts higher importance on the aspect of annexation which is dependent on the circumstances of each case, One
important of considerations is on the fact whether the articles that are attached to earth or structure, that may be removed without
₹11,990
structural damage and even articles merely resting on their own weight are fixtures only if they are attached with the intention of
permanently improving the premises, In Wake v. Halt (1883) 8 App Cat 195 Lord Blackburn of the Court of Appeal observed as
follows:
“The degree and nature of annexation is an important element for consideration; for where a chattel is so annexed that it cannot
be removed without great damage to the land, it affords a strong ground for thinking that it was intended to be annexed in
₹26,990 ₹28,990
perpetuity to the land.”
B.12. In the light of the above discussions, we submit that we can adopt the following two prong test to consider whether the goods are
movable property or immovable property:
₹8,990 ₹22,149
i. If the goods are intended to be permanently attached to earth without the intention of removing or such removal is not possible
without causing substantial damage to the goods — Immovable Property.
ii. If the machinery can be detached, as such which are installed on the basis of a concrete bed for vibration handling and
stability, with least damage- Movable
₹26,900 ₹62,999
B.13. As discussed supra in the factual matrix, applicant’s contract of work can be broadly categorized under the following:
B. 14. By applying the ratio of the above decisions into facts of the present case it can be said that the instant work has following
ingredients:
The works of electrification has a permanent location therefore, have an inherent element of permanency.
Electrification works are not feasible to be shifted from one place to another,
The works are entrusted by the Government Protects constitute the element of permanency.
It would involve construction of civil structure which cannot be moved and has to be demolished.
B.15. In view of the above, it is submitted that the current work is intended to be permanently attached to earth without the intention of
removing or such removal is not possible without causing substantial damage to the goods. Therefore, work undertaken by the
applicant squarely fails under the category of works contract.
B.16. In this regard the applicant also would like to refer to In this regard applicant places reliance on the GST Advance Ruling
pronounced by Authority in the State of Maharashtra, in the case of Giriraj Renewables Private Limited [2018-V1120-AAR], wherein
on the issue of supply under a turnkey Engineering, Procurement and Construction l’EPC1 contract for construction of solar power
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plant, Authority inter alia held that supply of solar power plant qualifies to be a works contract services as the plant results in
emergence of an immovable property in terms of Section 2(119) of CGST Act. 2017. The contract involved supply of various goods
such as modules, structures, inverter, transformer etc. as well as supply of service such as designing, engineering, transportation,
unloading, storage and site handling, installation, commissioning, construction, etc. The Authority interalia held that the following
criteria were taken into consideration to determine whether solar power project is. immovable:
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Big project has a permanent location and such plant would, therefore, have an inherent element of permanency.
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It would not be feasible to shift base from time to time or locate the plant elsewhere at frequent intervals.
Government projects will constitute the element of permanency.
Obtaining approvals and permits for commissioning of plant involves element of permanency.
The plant intended to be given a permanent location.
It involves the construction of civil structure which cannot be moved and has to be demolished.
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B.17. The principles of the above Ruling would squarely applicable in the present case as far the decision whether work undertaken by
the Applicant would fall under setting up of immovable property.
C.1 Explanation (x) to Notification No.8/2017- Integrated Tax (Rate) dated 28.06.2018 (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-
tax/integrated-tax-rate-fertilisers-reduced-12-5.html), as amended from time to time (hereinafter referred to as ‘Rate Notification)
defines ‘Government Entity’. The relevant portion of the definition is reproduced below:
(x) “Government Entity” means an authority or aboard or any other body including a society, trust, corporation,-
ii. Established by any Government, with 90 per cent, or more participation by way of equity or control, to carry out a function
entrusted by the Central Government, State Government, Union Territory or a local authority.
C.2. As can be seen, the definition of Government Entity means an authority or a board or any other body which is established by any
Government, with 90 percent or more participation by way of equity or control, to carry out a function entrusted by the Central
Government, State Government, Union Territory or a local authority.
C.3. In this regard, it is submitted that the electricity distribution companies HESCOM, MESCOM and BESCOM are established by the
Government of Karnataka, with shareholding of more than 90 percent. The annual reports of HESCOM, MESCOM and BESCOM are
₹11,990
enclosed.
C.4 It is submitted that in the Annual Report for the year 2016-17 of BESCOM, Note 2.16 provides the details of shareholder holing
more than 5% shares in the Company. In terms of the said Note, the Hon’ble Governor of State of Karnataka holds 54.69 Crores of
shares in BESCOM, which constitutes 99.99% of total equity shares of total shares of Rs. 10 each fully paid equity shares as at
31.03.2017.
₹26,990 ₹28,990
C.5 Similarly, it is submitted that in the Annual Report for the year 217-18 of HESCOM, Note 3 of the said annual report provides the
details of shareholder holing more than 5% shares in the Company. In terms of the said details, the Honeble Governor of State of
Karnataka holds 121.11 Crores of shares in HESCOM, which constitutes 99.99% of total equity shares of total shares of Rs.10 each
C.8 It is also submitted that the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) (https://taxguru.in/income-tax/cbdt-notifies-
karnataka-electricity-regulatory-commission-exemption-u-s-1046.html) was established in 1999 as per the provisions of the Karnataka
Electricity Reforms Act, 1999 and began functioning from 15.11.1999, KERC has granted License for Distribution and retail supply of
electricity to four distribution licensees in Karnataka viz., BESCOM, MESCOM, HESCOM and Gulbarga Electricity Supply Company
(CESCOM) for carrying out the distribution of electricity. These licenses were granted under the Karnataka Electricity Reforms
Act,1999.
C.9 The Government of India has notified 10.06.2003 as the date on which the Electricity Act, 2003 has come into force. According to
the first proviso to Section 14 of the Electricity Act,2003 any person engaged in the business of transmission or supply of electricity on
or before the appointed date, under the provisions interalia, of the Karnataka Electricity Reform Act 1999, shall be deemed to be a
Licensee under the Electricity Act, 2003. The fifth proviso to Section 14 also provides that the Companies created in pursuance of the
Acts specified in the Schedule (which include the Karnataka Electricity Reforms Act, 1999, (KERA) also) shall be deemed to be
Licenees under the Electricity Act,2003.
C.10 Consequent to the enactment of the Electricity Act, 2003, the KERC continued to function under the provisions of the Central Act.
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C.11 As per Section 86 of the Electricity Act,2003, the State Electricity Regulatory Commissions are required to discharge the following
functions:
a) Determine the tariff for generation, supply, transmission and wheeling of electricity; wholesale, bulk or retail, as the case may
be, within the State;
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b) Regulate electricity purchase and procurement process of distribution licensees including the price at which electricity shall be
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procured from the generating companies or licensees or from other sources through agreements for purchase of power for
distribution and supply within the State;
d) Issue licenses to persons seeking to act as transmission licensees, distribution licensees and electricity traders with respect to
their operations within the State;
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e) Promote cogeneration and generation of electricity from renewable sources of energy by providing suitable measures for
connectivity with the grid and sale of electricity to any person, and also specify, for purchase of electricity from such sources, a
percentage of the total consumption of electricity in the area of a distribution licensee;
f) Adjudicate upon the disputes between the licensees, and generating companies and to refer any dispute for arbitration;
h) Specify State Grid Code consistent with the Grid Code specified under clause (h) of sub section (1) of section 79;
i) Specify or enforce standards with respect to quality, continuity and reliability of service by licensees;
j) Fix the trading margin in the infra-State trading of electricity, if considered necessary; and
C.12 Considering the above functions to be entrusted upon the State Electricity Regulatory Commissions under the Electricity
Act,2003, it is submitted that all the electricity distribution companies viz; BESCOM, MESCOM and HESCOM are formed by the
Government of Karnataka for carrying out the business of distribution of electricity. These licenses were granted under the Karnataka
Electricity Reforms Act,1999. Consequent to the enactment of the Electricity Act, 2003, the KERC continued to function under the
provisions of the Central Act.
₹11,990
C.13 In this regard, the Applicant places reliance on the recent GST Advance Ruling given by Authority in the State of Uttarakhand, in
the case of NHPC Limited [20113 (19) G.S.T.L.349 (A.A.R.-GST)], regarding the requirement of payment of GST under reverse
charge in terms of Notification No.13/2017, dated 28.06.2017 (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-tax/cgst-services-under-reverse-
charge-mechanism.html) while making payment of PWD by NHPC Ltd., (a Government of India undertaking). The Authority observed
that the NGPC Ltd. is covered under the definition of “Government entity” inasmuch as promoter is Honble President of India, which
confirm the fact that it is established by the Central Government and it is under the administrative control of Ministry of Power,
₹26,990 ₹28,990
Government of India.
C.14 The Applicant further places reliance on the decision of Punjab and Haryan High Court, in the case of Bharat Bhushan Gupta &
Company v. State of Haryana [2016 (44) S.T.R.195 (P & 11)1, wherein it was held Haryan Housing Board is a government authority
₹8,990as₹22,149
it was set up under State Act, Haryana that Housing Board Act,1971 and it was wholly controlled by State Government. Hence,
service provided by contractors was within exemption clause 12 of Notification No.25/2012-S.T., dated 20-06-2012
(https://taxguru.in/service-tax/service-tax-mega-exemption-notification.html), effective from 1-7-2012. The relevant portion of the
judgment is extracted hereunder:
‘The Board has been constituted in terms of the provisions of Section 3 of the Act,as was enacted by the State Legislature. It is a
₹26,900 ₹62,999
body corporate which consists of a Chairman, a Chief Administrator and such other members, as the State Government may,
from time to time, appoint by a notification. The Chief Administrator shall be a person from amongst the officers of the rank of
Head of the Department or Joint Secretary of the State Government It is termed to be a local authority for the purposes of Land
Acquisition Act, 1894. Section 20 of the Act provides that subject to control of the State Government in Board may incur
expenditure on framing and execution of such housing schemes as may be considered necessary from time to time or as may be
entrusted to it by the State Government Every year, the Board is to prepare a budget in advance for the next year and place it
before the State Government for its approval. After sanction is granted by the State Government, the same is published in the
Official Gazettee. The Board authorized to barrow money for implementation of the projects, as approved with prior approval of
the State Government. Section 72 of the Act provides that the State Government shall exercise superintendence and control over
the Board and its officers. The aforesaid provisions of the Act clearly show that the Board is a governmental authority, as it
is fully under the control of the State Governments.”
[Emphasis supplied)
C.15 In this regard, the Applicant also places reliance on the recent GST Advance Ruling by Authority in the State of Maharashtra, in
the case of Leena Power Tech Engineers Pvt. Ltd. [2019 ) (20) G.S.T.L 309 (A.A.R.-GST), where it was held that City and Industrial
Development Corporation of Maharashtra Limited (CIDCO) is constituted and established by the State Government of Maharashtra
with 100% participation by way of equity or control to carry out the function of development of new township of New Bombay and
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therefore CIDCO is clearly covered under the definition of ‘ Government Entity’.
C.16 The Applicant also refers on the recent GST Advance Ruling given by Authority in the State of Rajasthan, in the case of Tate
Projects Ltd., [2018 (14) G.S.T.L.129 (A.A.R.-GST), wherein it was held that Jaipur Development Authority established under Jaipur
Development Authority. Act,1982 is covered under ” Government Authority” and services provided by applicant consortium covered
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under services mentioned at Serial No.3(vi)(a) of Notification No.11/2017-C.T. (Rate) (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-
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tax/notification-no-11-2017-central-tax-rate-updated-till-14th-nov-2017.html) as amended with Notification No.24/2017-C.T.(Rate)
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C.17 In view of the aforesaid, it is submitted that the electricity distributing companies viz, BESCOM, MESCOM and FIESCOM are
formed and established by the State Government of Karnataka with 99.99% participation by way of equity or control to carry out
distribution of electricity under the Electricity Act, 2013 would squarely falls under the meaning of “Government Entity’ as contemplated
under Explanation (x) to the Rate Notification.
D.1 It is submitted that contracts undertaken by the applicant are in the nature of original works as defined under the relevant
Notification issued under the Act. It is submitted that the term original works has not been defined in GST Act. Therefore, reliance is
placed on the definition as provided under clause 2(zs) to the Notification No. 12/2017-Central Tax (Rate) dated 28-06-2017
(https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-tax/notify-supplies-eligible-refund-unutilized-itc-igst-act.html) as amended from time to time.
i. All type of additions and alterations to abandoned or damaged structures o land that are required to make them workable; and
ii. Erection, commissioning or installation or plant, machinery or equipment or structures, whether pre-fabricated or otherwise.
D.3 Taking into consideration the nature of contacts it is submitted that the Rural Electrification and setting up of electricity distribution
work on turnkey basis and laying of high tension wires and erection of distribution transformers on turnkey basis are original works as it
is new additions and installation work.
₹11,990
D.4 In this regard, the Applicant refers to the recent GST Advance Ruling given by Authority in the State of Maharashtra , in the case of
Leena Power Tech Engineers Pvt. Ltd.[2019 (20) G.S.T.L.309 (A.A.R.-GST)], where in the work of “development of power supply
infrastructure distribution network including 33KV sub-station equipment’s & construction of 11/0.4 KV HT sub-stations are allied
electrical works on UI we Node, Navi Mumbai” was held to be “original work”.
E. THE WORKS CONTRACT SERVICES PROUCURED BY THE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION COMPANIES ARE IN RELATION
₹26,990 ₹28,990
TO WORK ENTRUSTED BY THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT AND STATE GOVERNMENT
E.1 It is submitted that the works contract services are procured by the electricity distribution companies in relation to work entrusted
by the Central Government and Government of Karnataka.
₹8,990E.2
₹22,149
It submitted that MESCOM is undertaking project which are entrusted to the Government of India and Government of Karnataka.
The relevant details of the project in brief, are as follows:
Strengthening of Distribution Networks in Udupi Circle of MESCOM, Karnataka under Integrated Power Development Scheme (IRDS)
₹26,900 ₹62,999
on turnkey basis.
Karnataka under Deendayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGY) on turnkey basis.
E.3 It is further submitted that BESCOM is providing infrastructure to, regularized un-authorized IP sets by extending 11KV HT Lines,
erection of 25KVA 3 star rated distribution transformers and extension of LT line 3 phase 4 wire on total turnkey basis undertaking
project which are entrusted by the Government of Karnataka.
E.4. It is also submitted that HESCOM is undertaking work of strengthening ion Networks in Belagavi Circle under integrated power
development Distribution IPDS) entrusted by the Central Government.
E.5 It is submitted that Ministry of Power, Government of India in terms of Notification Number 26/01/2014 dated 03.12.2014 has
notified Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS), with the following components.
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areas.
iii. IT enablement of distribution sector and strengthening of distribution network under R-ADRP to IPDS.
iv. Scheme for Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and IT enablement of balance urban towns are also included under KPDS
Scope of IT enabiement has been extended to all 4041 towns as per Census 2011.
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E.6 The Monitoring Committee of the Ministry of Power has approved the projects under 1PDS for the State of Karnataka amounting to
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Rs. 1,197.66 crores. The details of cost approved for the electricity companies viz., BESCOM, MESCOM and HESCOM are given
there under:
SI.No Name of
No.of towns DPR Cost
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20/11/2021, 10:59 18% GST payable on EPC services provided to Govt owned Electricity Supply Companies
1 BESCOM 45 459.45
2 MESCOM 29 168.44
3 HESCOM 73 206.38
E.7 The Ministry of Power, Government of India has launched the Deendayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY) on 20.11.2014.
The main component of the scheme are as follows:
i. Separation of agriculture and non-agriculture feeders facilitating judicious rostering of supply to agricultural and non-agricultural
consumers in the rural area; and
ii. Strengthening of augmentation of sub-transmission & distribution infrastructure in Rural areas, including, metering of
distribution transformers/feeders/consumers.
iii. Rural electrification, as per CCEA approval dated 01.08.2013 for completion of the targets laid down under RGGVY for 12th
and 13th plans by carrying forward the approved outlaw for RGGVY to DDUGJY.
E.8. The Monitoring Committee of Ministry of Power has approved the projects under DDUGJY for the State of Karnataka amounting
₹11,990
to Rs. 1754.32 Crores. Out of this, the details of cost approved for the electricity viz, BESCOM, MESCOM and HESCOM are given
here under:
Crores)
₹26,990 ₹28,990
1 BESCOM 235.36
2 MESCOM 395.67
3 HESCOM 331.85
₹8,990 ₹22,149
Total 962.88
E.9 It is clear from the above that the IPDS and DDUGJY schemes are implemented by Ministry of Power, Government of India and
₹26,900therefore,
₹62,999it is submitted that the projects undertaken by HESCOM, BESCOM and MESCOM are entrusted by Government of India.
E.10 It is submitted that in Circular No.89/7/2006, dated 18.12.2006 (https://taxguru.in/service-tax/circular-89-7-2006-st-dated-
18122006.html), it was clarified that ‘the activities performed by the sovereign/public authorities under the provision of law are in the
nature of statutory obligations which are to be fulfilled in accordance with law. “Para 2 and 3 of the said circular read thus:
” 2. The issue has been examined. The Board is of the view that the activities performed by the sovereign/public authorities under
the provision of law are in the nature of statutory obligations which are to be fulfilled in accordance with law. The fee collected by
them for performing such activities is in the nature of compulsory levy as per the provisions of the relevant statute, and it is
deposited into the Government Treasury. Such activity is purely in public interest and it is undertaken as mandatory and statutory
function. These are not in the nature of service to any particular individual for any consideration. Therefore, such as activity
performed by a sovereign/ public authority under the provisions of law does not constitute provision of Taxable Service to a
person and therefore, no Service Tax is leviable on such activities.
3. However, if such authority performs a service, which is not in the nature of statutory activity and the same is undertaken for a
consideration not in the nature of statutory fee/ levy then in such cases, Service Tax would be leviable, if the activity undertaken
falls within the ambit of a Taxable Service.”
E.11 In Commr. of C. Ex., Nashik v. Maharashtra Industrial Devl.Corpn. [2018 (9) G.S.T.L. 372 (Bom.)], the Honble High Court
inter alia held that the activities performed by sovereign or public authorities under the provisions of law which are in the nature of
statutory obligations. The Honble High Court relied upon the above Circular dated 18.12.2006 o hold that only if the authority performs
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service which is not in the nature of statutory fee, Service Tax would be leviable if the activity undertaken otherwise falls within the
ambit of Taxable Service.
E.12. It is submitted that the electrically distribution companies viz. VESCOM, MESCOM and HESCOM are performing the statutory
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function entrusted to them under the Electricity Act,20013. It is further submitted that the electricity distribution companies are formed
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and established by the State Government of Karnataka with 99.99% participation by way of equity or control to carry out function of
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distribution of electricity under the Electricity Act,20013. Therefore, the other works undertaken by MESCOM, BESCOM and HESCOM
are entrusted by the Government of Karnataka.
F. THE WORKS CONTRACT SERVICES PROVIDED TO ELECTRICITY COMPANIES BY MEIL ARE MEANT PREDOMINATLY FOR
USE OTHER THAN FOR COMMERCE. INDUSTRY, OR ANY.OTHER BUSINESS OR PROFESSION
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F.1 It is submitted that the works contract services provided to electricity distribution companies by MEIL are meant predominantly for
use other than for commerce, industry or any other business or profession. The relevant definitions have been discussed infra to
substantiate the submissions.
F.2 The meaning of “commerce” as given by the Concise Oxford Dictionary is “exchange of merchandise, specially on large scale”. In
ordinary parlance, trade and commerce carry with them the idea of purchase and sale with a view to make profit.
F.3 The definition of Industry’ as provided in Section 2(j) of the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947 read as under,
“Industry” means any business, trade, undertaking, manufacture or calling of employers and includes any calling, service;
employment, handicraft, or industrial occupation or avocation of workmen.”
F.4 Section 2(17) of the GST Act defines the term ‘Business’ as under:
a) any trade, commerce, manufacture, profession, vacation, adventure, wager or any other similar activity, whether or not it is for
a pecuniary benefit:
…………”
F.5 It is submitted that the definitions of commerce, trade or business, in an ordinary sense, is meant for making of profit. It is further
₹11,990
submitted that through the definition of business is very wide to include the activity which are not motive of profit.
F.6 It is also submitted that electricity distribution companies are not formed with an objective making profit. In this regard reference
can be made to the object clause of the Electricity Act,2003, which reads as follows:
” An Act to consolidate the laws relating to generation, transmission, distribution, trading and use of electricity and generally for
taking measures conductive to development of electricity industry, promoting competition therein, protecting interest of
₹26,990 ₹28,990
consumers and supply of electricity to all areas, rationalization of electricity tariff, ensuring transparent policies regarding
subsidies, promotion of efficient and environmentally benign policies, constitution of Central Electricity. Authority, Regulatory
Commissions and establishment of Appellate Tribunal and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.’
F.7 In this regard, reference is made to Section 2(67) of the Electricity Act, in terms of which, ‘State Transmission Utility” means the
₹8,990Board
₹22,149
or the Government Company specified as such by the State Government under sub-section (1) of Section 39. In terms of
Section 39(1) the State Government may notify the Board or a Government Company as the State Transmission Utility.
F.8 In terms of second proviso to. Section 39(1) of the Electricity Act, the State Government may transfer, and vest any property,
interest in property, rights and liability connected with, and personnel involved in transmission of electricity, of such State Transmission
₹26,900 ₹62,999
Utility, to a company or companies to be incorporated under the Companies Act,1956 to function as transmission licensee through a
transfer scheme to be effected in the manner specified under Part XIII and such company or companies shall be deemed to be
transmission licensees under this Act.
F.9 In terms of Section 39(2) of the Electricity Act, the functions of the State Transmission Utility shall be-
b) to discharge all functions of planning and co-ordination relating to intra-State transmission system with-
v. Authority;
vi. Licensees;
vii. Any other person notified by the State Government in this behalf;
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c) To ensure development of an efficient, co-ordinated and economical system of intra-State transmission lines for smooth flow of
electricity from a generating station to the load centres;
d) To provide non-discriminatory open access to its transmission system for use by-
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F.6 It is also submitted that electricity distribution companies are not formed with an objective making profit. In this regard reference
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can be made to the object clause of the Electricity Act,2003, which reads as follows:
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” An Act to consolidate the laws relating to generation, transmission, distribution, trading and use of electricity and generally for
taking measures conductive to development of electricity industry, promoting competition therein, protecting interest of
consumers and supply of electricity to all areas, rationalization of electricity tariff ensuring transparent policies regarding
subsidies, promotion of efficient and environmentally benign policies, constitution of Central Electricity. Authority, Regulatory
Commissions and establishment of Appellate Tribunal and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.”
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F.7 In this regard, reference is made to Section 2(67) of the Electricity Act, in terms of which, “State Transmission Utility” means the
Board or the Government Company specified as such by the State Government under sub-section (1) of Section 39. In terms of
Section 39(1) the State Government may notify the Board or a Government Company as the State Transmission Utility.
F.8 In terms of second, proviso to Section 39(1) of the Electricity Act, the State Government may transfer, and vest any property,
interest in property, rights and liability connected with, and personnel involved in transmission of electricity, of such State Transmission
Utility, to a company or companies to be incorporated under the Companies Act,1956 to function as transmission licensee through a
transfer scheme to be effected in the manner specified under Part XIII and such company or companies shall be deemed to be
transmission licensees under this Act.
F.9 In terms of Section 39(2) of the Electricity Act, the functions of the State Transmission Utility shall be-
b) to discharge all functions of planning and co-ordination relating to intra-State transmission system with-
₹11,990
iv. Regional Power Committees;
v. Authority;
vi. Licensees;
vii. Any other person notified by the State Government in this behalf;
₹26,990c)₹28,990
To ensure development of an efficient, co-ordinated and economical system of intra-State transmission lines for smooth flow of
electricity from a generating station to the load centres;
d) To provide non-discriminatory open access to its transmission system for use by- Government and therefore held that corporations
to be State under Article 12 of the Constitution.
₹8,990 ₹22,149
F.17 Reliance is also placed on the decision of Hon’ble Supreme Court in the case of Som Prakash Rekhi v. Union of India and On.,
MANU/SC/0582/1980, wherein the Court observed that, “if only fundamental rights were forbidden access to corporations, companies,
bureaus, institutes, councils and kindred bodies which act as agencies of the administration there may be breakdown of the rule of law
and the constitutional order in a large sector of governmental activity carried on under the guise of jural persons” and held that a public
₹26,900corporation
₹62,999 (Bharat Petroleum Corporation) would fall under the definition of Article 12.
F.18 Reliance is also placed on the decision of Hon’ble Himachal Pradesh High Court in the case of Chanana Steel ‘Tubes Pvt.Ltd.
v.H.P.S.I.D.C., AIR 2003 HP 36, wherein on the issue of cancellation of recovery process, it was discussed that when ‘company’ is a
wholly State Government owned company incorporated under the Companies Act,1956, the Government has got pervasive control
over this company. Its managing Director is appointed by the State Government, as also other officials are also appointed as Directors.
Thus, it is an “other authority”, within the meaning of Article 12.
F.19 It is submitted that Article 74 of Articles of Association of MESCOM confers that as long as entire paid up share capital in the
Company is held by the Government of Karnataka or by the Central Govt. or by the • Govt. of Karnataka and Central Govt. or by a
subsidiary of a wholly owned Govt. Company, the Govt. of Karnataka shall have the right to nominate and appoint all the Directors of
the Board of the Company and shall have also the right to remove the Director(s) from Office and appoint one or more of the Directors
to the Office of the Chairman of the Board of Directors or Managing Director or Whole Time Directors of the Company for such term
and on such remuneration and/or allowance as it may think fit and may at any time remove him/them from office and appoint
another/others in his/their place(s). Similar powers with regard to appointment are provided in the Articles of Association of BESCOM
and HESCOM. The Article of Association of MESCOM, HESCOM and BESCOM are enclosed respectively.
F.20 In view of the above, it is submitted that MESCOM and other companies are State in terms of Article 12 of the Constitution.
F.21 It also submitted that as per Section 2(h) of the Right to Information Act,2005 (hereinafter, the “RTI Act”) a “public authority”
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ii. non-Government organization substantially financed, directly or indirectly by funds provided by the appropriate
Government.
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F.22 It is submitted that the electricity distribution companies are body owned, controlled and financed by Government of Karnataka
and therefore, they squarely fall under the meaning of public authority as provided under the Act.
F.23 In this regard reliance is placed on the decision of the Central Information Commission in the case of Slat Nisar Ahmed Shaikh
86 On. V. MC Housing Finance Limited MANU/Cl/0069/2009, wherein it was held that the LILC Housing Finance Limited and LIC
Mutual Fund Asset Management Co. Ltd. would qualify as “Public authorities” under the RTI Act. It was held that LIC is a body
established, constituted, owned and controlled by Central Government. LIC is a public authority having been constituted by an Act of
Parliament, And ,since the Chairman and Managing Director for both LIC and LICHFL is the same, and since LIC has 40.497% of the
LIC Housing Finance Limited and LIC Mutual Fund Asset Management Co. Ltd. would be regarded as a “public authority” for the
purpose of the RTI Act.
F.24 In view of the above, it is also submitted that the electricity distribution companies are State in which they are engaged as Public
Authority.
G. MEIL IS THEREFORE ELIGIBLE FOR REDUCED RATE OF GST FOR WORKS CONTRACT SERVICES PROVIDED TO
ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION COMPANIES UNDER ENTRY 31vi1(al TO NOTIFICATION NO.8/2017-INTEGRATED TAX
(RATE1DATED 28.06.2017
G.1 It is submitted as stated above that the services supplied by the Applicant to the electricity distribution companies are in the nature
of construction services failing under heading 9954 of the scheme of classification of service under GST regime.
₹11,990
G.2 It is also submitted that the service supplied by the Applicant to the electricity distribution companies are in the nature of works
contract as defined under Section 2(119) of the GST Act. It is also submitted that the services are provided by the Applicant to the
electricity distribution companies which are covered under the purview of ‘government entities’ in view of their shareholding pattern.
G.3 It is also submitted that the services supplied by the Applicant to the electricity distribution companies are in the nature of original
₹26,990work of construction, erection, commissioning, installation, completion, fitting out, repair, maintenance, renovation, or alteration of a
₹28,990
civil structure. It is also submitted that the services under consideration are meant predominantly for use other than for commerce,
industry, or any other business or profession for the reason that the activity or transaction is undertaken by the Government in which
they are engaged a public authorities provided under the RTI Act.
₹8,990G.4
₹22,149
It is also submitted that the services under consideration are supplied by the Applicant to the electricity distribution companies
being Government entities, are procured by them in relation to a work entrusted to them by the Central Government,
State,Government; Union territory or local authority.
G.5 In view of the above, it is submitted that the Applicant is eligible to for reduced rate of GST ® 12% for works contract services
₹26,900provided
₹62,999to electrically distribution companies under entry 3 (vi)(a) to Notification No.8/2017,-Integrated Tax (Rate) dated
28.06.2017 (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-tax/notify-rates-supply-services-igst-act.html)
10. Sri Ravi Raghavan, Advocate, authorized representatives of the applicant appeared for personal hearing proceedings held on
27.03.2019 8s reiterated the facts narrated in their application.
11.1 We have considered the submissions made by the Applicant in their application for advance ruling as well as the submissions made by
Sri Ravi Raghavan, Advocate and authorized representative, during personal hearing. We have also considered the issues involved, on
which advance ruling is sought by the applicant, and relevant facts.
11.2 The issue for consideration is whether the five contracts in question are covered under entry no. 3(vi)(a) of the Notification No.11/2017
– Central Tax (Rate) dated 28.06.2017 (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-tax/notification-no-11-2017-central-tax-rate-updated-till-14th-
nov-2017.html) as amended from time to time liable to tax at 12% (COST + SGST together) or not.
11.3 The entry no. 3(vi)(a) of the Notification No.11/2017- Central Tax (Rate) dated 28.06.2017 (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-
tax/notification-no-11-2017-central-tax-rate-updated-till-14th-nov-2017.html) as amended reads as under:
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SL.
Heading Description of Services Rate Condition
No
https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-tax/18-gst-payable-epc-services-provided-govt-owned-electricity-supply-companies.html 14/21
20/11/2021, 10:59 18% GST payable on EPC services provided to Govt owned Electricity Supply Companies
Heading 9954 (vi) Composite supply of works contract as defmed in clause (119) if section 2 of 12% Provided that where the
the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 (https://taxguru.in/goods-and- services are supplied to a
Further the terms ‘Governmental Authority” and ‘Government Entity” have been defined in paragraph 4 of the same notification as amended
₹11,990
from time to time and the same reads as under:
” (ix)” Governmental Entity’ means an authority or a board or any other body including a society, trust, corporation, –
₹8,990 ₹22,149
i. set up by an Act of Parliament or a State Legislature; or
with 90 per cent. or more participation by way of equity or control, to carry out any function entrusted by the Central Government, State
Government, Union Territory or a local authority.’
₹26,900 ₹62,999
The term “original works” has not been defined under the said Notification, but it is defined in the context of Notification No.12/2017-
Central Tax (Rate) dated 28.06.2017 (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-tax/notify-supplies-eligible-refund-unutilized-itc-igst-act.html)
which also can be used in the context of this Notification as both deals with taxation of services and the same reads as under:
(i) all types of additions and alterations to abandoned or damaged structures on land that are required to make them workable;
(ii) erection, commissioning or installation of plant, machinery or equipment or structures, whether pre fabricated or otherwise;’
(a) It must be a composite supply of works contract as defined in section 2(119) of the CGST Act, 2017
(b) It must be provided to the Central Government, State Government, Union Territory, a local authority, a Governmental Authority or a
Government Entity
(c) The contract should be by way of construction, erection, commissioning, installation, completion, fitting out, repair, maintenance,
renovation or alteration of a civil structure or any other original works.
(d) The civil structure or original works must be meant predominantly for use other than for commerce, industry, or any other business
or profession
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(e) Where the services are supplied to a Government Entity, they should have been procured by the said entity in relation to a work
entrusted to it by the Central Government, State Government, Union Territory or a local authority, as the case may be.
11.5 The works contract has been defined in clause (119) of section 2 of the CGST Act, 2017 and the same reads as under:
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” (119) “works contract” means a contract for building, construction, fabrication, completion, erection, installation, fitting out,
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improvement, modification, repair, maintenance, renovation, alteration or commissioning of any immovable property wherein transfer of
property in goods (whether as goods or in some other form) is involved in the execution of such contract;’
The contracts the applicant is executing are covered under the definition of works contract for the reasons as under:
(a) They are in relation to the completion, erection, installation and commissioning of an immovable property as all projects are turnkey
projects and the property in goods cannot be removed without dismantling the same.
https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-tax/18-gst-payable-epc-services-provided-govt-owned-electricity-supply-companies.html 15/21
20/11/2021, 10:59 18% GST payable on EPC services provided to Govt owned Electricity Supply Companies
(b) there is transfer of property in goods involved in the execution of such contract.
11.6 The Electricity Distribution Companies to whom the applicant is executing works i.e. HESCOM, BESCOM, MESCOM, etc. are
Government Entities for the following reasons:
(a) they are established by the Government with 90 per cent. or more participation by way of equity or control
Since the applicant is executing works for Electricity Distribution Companies which are Government Entities, the second condition is also
satisfied.
11.7 The Electricity Distribution Companies are procuring these services from the applicant in relation to a work entrusted to it by the State
Government, which is supply of electricity to consumers and the filth condition is also satisfied.
11.8 The contract is for construction, erection, commissioning, installation, completion of original works. The contract is a new construction
involving erection, commissioning or installation of plant, machinery or equipment or structures and hence the third condition is also
satisfied.
11.9 The issue under detailed discussion is whether the works are meant predominantly for use other than for commerce, industry, or any
₹11,990
other business or profession. The Electricity Distribution Companies are involved in selling of electricity to the consumers and are collecting
consideration and electrical energy is considered as “goods”. Hence the Electricity Distribution Companies are involved in the sale of goods
or in general, supply of goods to the consumers for consideration. The Explanation clause inserted which reads as under:
“For the purposes of this item, the term ‘business’ shall not include any activity or transaction undertaken by the Central Government, a
State Government or any local authority in which they are engaged as public authorities.”
₹26,990 ₹28,990
does not apply as they are not activities undertaken by the Central Government or State Government or a local authority.
11.10 Further, the term “business” is defined in clause (17) of section 2 of the CGST Act and it reads as under:
₹8,990 ₹22,149
(a) any trade, commerce, manufacture, profession, vocation, adventure, wager or any other similar activity, whether or not it is for
a pecuniary benefit;
(b) any activity or transaction in connection with or incidental or ancillary to sub-clause (a);
(c) any activity or transaction in the nature of sub-clause (a), whether or not there is volume, frequency, continuity or regularity of
₹26,900 ₹62,999
such transaction;
(d) supply or acquisition of goods including capital goods and services in connection with commencement or closure of business;
(e) ……..;
(f) ……………;
(g) …………;
(i) ………….;
11.11 From the definition of business, it is clear that any activity of trade, commerce, manufacture, etc or any other similar activity is included
in the definition of business and it is immaterial whether it is done for a pecuniary benefit, and any activity done in connection with or
incidental or ancillary to such activity is also included in the scope of “business”.
11.12 The Electricity Distribution Companies are involved in the supply of goods as already explained and hence they are involved in the
business of supplying goods. They also receive consideration for the supply of electricity. The predominant activity of the Electricity
Distribution Companies is to supply Electricity and the works executed by the applicant are used for this only predominant activity and hence
are original works meant predominantly for use for commerce, industry, or any other business or profession.
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Hence the contracts in question do not satisfy the fourth condition required for them to be covered under the Entry No.3(vi)(a) of
Notification No.11/2017 Central Tax (Rate) (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-tax/notification-no-11-2017-central-tax-rate-updated-till-
14th-nov-2017.html) as amended from time to time.
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The services provided by the applicant to the Electricity Supply Companies (wholly owned Government of Karnataka Undertakings) by way
of construction erection, commissioning, installation, completion, etc. are not covered under entry 3(vi)(a) of the Notification No.12/2017-
Central Tax (Rate) dated 28.06.2017 (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-tax/notify-supplies-eligible-refund-unutilized-itc-igst-act.html) or
https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-tax/18-gst-payable-epc-services-provided-govt-owned-electricity-supply-companies.html 16/21
20/11/2021, 10:59 18% GST payable on EPC services provided to Govt owned Electricity Supply Companies
under entry 3(vi)(a) of the Notification No.8/2017-Integrated Tax (Rate) dated 28.06.2017 (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-
tax/integrated-tax-rate-fertilisers-reduced-12-5.html) as amended from time to time and consequentially are not eligible to be taxed at a lower
rate of 12% GST and hence are liable to be taxed at 18% GST.
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Writ filed challenging constitutional validity of Section 140(5) of CGST Act, 2017 (https://taxguru.in/goods-and-service-tax/writ-filed-challenging-
constitutional-validity-section-1405-cgst-act-2017.html)
One Comment
krishna says:
sir Welcome HESCOM is a government of karnataka owned Electricity distribution company with 100% share. As per the GST resume GST is not applicable
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to Transmission and distribution of Electricity. Hence, HESCOM is a Electricity Distributng company. Any works and services provided and service taken by
company is for the company’s Distribution of Electricity only. If vehicle hired is also for the same and not for the other works/own works. works carried out
belong to out of and in the course of Distrition of electricity only. hence in my opinion in the broader sense any activity carried out by the Electricity company
is fully exempt from payment of GST. suppose if company constructs house and give it to the other people then this type of activity is not in the course of
transmission and distribution of Electcity then it is taxable.
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