CBIC Suspends Chennai GST Commissioner Over Bribery Allegations, CBI Probe Initiated
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has taken decisive action by placing a Central GST commissioner from Chennai under suspension following serious allegations of demanding illegal gratification from goods and service tax payers. This significant development underscores the government's commitment to maintaining integrity within the tax administration system.
Officer Suspended and Case Referred to CBI
P Manikkavel, a 2004-batch officer serving as the Chennai South Commissionerate commissioner (CGST), has been suspended with immediate effect. The CBIC chief vigilance officer has formally referred the complaint to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the matter.
The suspension order, dated February 7, explicitly states that a complaint alleging a demand for illegal gratification was received against Commissioner Manikkavel. According to the official directive, he shall remain under suspension until further orders are issued. Additionally, strict restrictions have been imposed, prohibiting him from leaving his headquarters without obtaining prior written permission from the principal chief commissioner of CGST.
Background and Jurisdictional Significance
Commissioner P Manikkavel assumed charge as Chennai South's CGST and central excise commissioner in May 2025, making this suspension a notable event early in his tenure. The Chennai South CGST jurisdiction, which he oversaw, comprises 11 divisions and covers six corporation zones including Kodambakkam, Valasaravakkam, and Alandur.
This jurisdiction is particularly significant as it accounts for approximately 14.8% of the total GST revenue generated from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. The suspension therefore raises concerns about potential impacts on tax collection efficiency and taxpayer confidence in this economically vital region.
Implications and Ongoing Investigation
The CBIC's swift action in suspending a senior officer and referring the case to the CBI demonstrates a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption within the indirect tax administration. This case highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring ethical conduct among tax officials and the mechanisms in place to address such violations.
As the CBI takes over the investigation, further details regarding the nature of the alleged illegal gratification demands and any potential accomplices are expected to emerge. The outcome of this probe will be closely monitored by both government authorities and the business community, particularly those operating within the Chennai South GST jurisdiction.
