ADIT (IT) 1(2), MUMBAI vs. CALYON BANK, MUMBAI

Ground No.1 – Taxability of interest Rs.5,85,87,683/- received by Indian Branch from Head Office(HO) /Overseas Branches on NOSTRO Accounts:

Ground No.2 :Disallowance of interest paid to HO/Overseas Branches invoking the provisions of section 40(a)(i) of the Act:

Ground No.3: Disallowance of bank charges paid to HO/Overseas branches by invoking the provisions of section 40(a)(i) of the Act:

“ Without prejudice to Ground No. 3, having held that the interest earned by the Indian Branch from the Nostro accounts maintained with Head Office / Overseas Branches is taxable income, the bank charges deducted by the HO/ OB for maintaining such Nostro accounts should be allowed as a deductible expenditure.”

Since, we have allowed assessee’s claim of deduction of bank charges raised in ground No.3 of appeal, the additional ground raised has become academic, hence, not deliberated upon.

Ground No.4, 5 & Additional Grounds: Ground No.4: Allowability of direct expenses towards credit risk assistance and Electronic Data Processing(EDP) assistance provided by HO to Indian Branch” Ground No.5: Allowability of direct expenses incurred by HO/Overseas Branch towards HO-SI Charges, Regional Logistics Asia Pacific Cost and EDP recharges and Information System Asia Pacific chargesu/s.37(1) of the Act: 10. The ld. Counsel for the assessee submitted that the issue raised in ground No.4 and 5 of appeal has been considered by the Tribunal in the preceding Assessment Years. In Assessment Year 2005-06, the Tribunal had restored the issue to the Assessing Officer. The Assessing Officer passed the order giving effect on 31/12/2018 and has allowed direct expenses incurred towards Head Office –System Implementation (HO-SI) Charges, Regional Logistics Asia Pacific Cost and EDP recharges and Information System Asia Pacific charges. (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 10.1 We find that the issue raised in ground No.4 and 5 of the appeal was considered by the Co-ordinate Bench in assessee's own case in the preceding Assessment Years. While deciding the appeal of assessee for Assessment Year 2004-05 the Co-ordinate Bench placed reliance on the decision of Tribunal in assessee's own case for Assessment Year 2002-03 allowing direct expenditure incurred by HO u/s. 37(1) of the Act. In Assessment Year 2005-06 the Co-ordinate Bench restored the issue back to the file of Assessing Officer as the Revenue Authorities failed to verify the documents furnished by the assessee. In remand proceedings the Assessing Officer allowed the expenditure. We find that this issue is recurring and the Tribunal has been consistently allowing this issue in favour of assessee. No material has been placed on record before us to show any distinction in the impugned assessment year. Therefore, we find no reason to take a contrary view. Ergo, ground No.4 and 5 of appeal are allowed for the reasons stated in Tribunal order for Assessment Year 2004-05.

Vide application dated 14/01/2016

“ The Assessing Officer (AO) ought to have granted credit for taxes deducted by the India branch on Head Office System Implementation charges, Regional Logistics Asia Pacific costs & EDP recharge and Information Systems Asia Pacific charges.”

(A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014

Vide Application dated 19/03/2018

The DRP ought to have directed the AO to grant credit for taxes deducted by the India branch on Head office system implementation charges, EDP Recharge, Regional Service Center Asia charges and Asia Data Processing Centre costs.

Ground No.6: Disallowance u/s. 14A of the Act:

Ground No7 - Profit on revaluation of unmatured forward forex contracts: 14. The ld.Counsel for the assessee submitted that the assessee has earned profit of Rs.58.36 crores on revaluation of unmatured forward forex contracts. In the preceding Assessment Years the loss on revaluation was not allowed by the Assessing Officer. The assessee carried the issue in appeal before the Tribunal . The Tribunal in Assessment Year 1998-99 allowed loss on revaluation of unmatured forex contracts. As a corollary, profit arising on such unmatured forex contract is liable to tax. The ld.Counsel for the assessee submitted that in the light of the decision of the Tribunal in preceding Assessment Years allowing loss on revaluation of unmatured forex contracts, the ground No.7 of appeal is not pressed. In view of the statement made by ld.Counsel for the assessee, ground No.7 of appeal is dismissed as not pressed.

Ground No.8 : Netting of Interest u/s. 244A of the Act against interest u/s.234D of the Act : 15. The ld. Counsel for the assessee submitted that the assessee was liable to pay interest of Rs.73,63,170/- u/s. 234D of the Act and the same time the assessee was entitled to receive interest u/s. 244A of the Act. The assessee prayed for netting off of the interest. The Assessing Officer rejected the (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 prayer of assessee. The assessee carried the issue in appeal before the CIT(A) . The CIT(A) upheld the findings of Assessing Officer. The ld.Counsel for the assessee pointed that the Hon'ble Bombay High Court in Income Tax Appeal No.27 of 2016 for Assessment Year 2004-05, in the case of CIT vs. Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank decided on 16/07/2018 has considered this issue and has decided the same in favour of the assessee.

15.1 We find that one of the question before the Hon'ble Bombay High Court in the aforesaid appeal was:

2.”Whether on the facts and in the circumstances of the case and in law, the Tribunal is correct in allowing the interest paid under the provisions of the act to be adjusted against the interest received under Section 244A of the Act?” The Hon'ble High Court following the decision rendered in the case of DIT vs. Bank of America in Income Tax appeal No.17 7 of 2012 held that no substantial question of law arises for consideration. Thus, the above question was decided in favour of assessee.In assessee's own case in Assessment Year 2005-06 in the Co-ordinate Bench allowed netting of interest u/s. 234D and 244A of the Act. We find no reason to take a different view in impugned assessment year, hence, ground No.8 of appeal is allowed for parity of reasons.

Additional ground filed on 06/06/2013 – Interest received u/s.244A of the Act is liable to tax at a rate prescribed in Article-12 of DTAA between India & France: 16. The ld.Counsel for the assessee submitted that similar issued was raised in Assessment Year 2005-06 before the CIT(A). The CIT(A) allowed this ground (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 in favour of assessee. The Department accepted the same as this issue was not carried further in appeal by the Department. The ld.Counsel for the assessee further pointed that this issue was agitated by the Department in appeal before the Tribunal for Assessment Year 1997-98 in of 2013 in case titled Director of Income Tax vs. Credit Agricole Indo-Suez Ltd. The Hon'ble High Court upheld the findings of Tribunal and dismissed the ground raised by the Department.

We find that in the aforesaid appeal one of the substantial question of law assailing findings of the Tribunal was on the issue of rate of tax on interest received u/s. 244A of the Act. The Hon’ble High Court placing reliance on the decision of Special Bench of Tribunal in the case of Clough Engineering Ltd., 130 ITD137 dismissed the substantial question in an appeal by the Department. Thus, in the light of facts of the case and the aforesaid decisions, we find merit in additional ground of appeal raised by the assessee, hence, the same is allowed.

Ground No.9 – Disallowance of depreciation on Motor Carclaimed @40%: 17. The ld.Counsel for the assessee submitted that the assessee had claimed deprecation of Rs.2,25,787/- @ 40% on vehicles. The Assessing Officer restricted the depreciation to 15% on the ground that the assessee failed to prove that the assessee had acquired vehicles after 1stOctober, 1998 and where “put to use” before 01/04/1999. The Assessing Officer further observed that the assessee failed to prove that the vehicles acquired were commercial vehicles. The ld.Counsel for the assessee pointed that the DRP in para 11.1 of (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 the directions has given a finding that the vehicles owned by the assessee were for the purpose of transportation of the employees as well as for banking business. The expenses incurred on this vehicles have been allowed as business expenditure u/s. 37 of the Act. After having recorded the aforesaid facts, the DRP upheld the findings of Assessing Officer and dismissed objection of assessee. He submitted that there is no question of “put to use” after having accepted that the vehicles were used for transportation of employees and for other banking requirements.

17.1 Per contra, the ld. Departmental Representative supporting the assessment order contended that the assessee could not produce any documentary evidence to show as to when the vehicles were “put to use”.

17.2 We have heard the submissions made by rival sides. We find that the DRP in its directions has given a finding of fact that the vehicles were used for transportation of employees and other banking business requirements. This itself shows that the vehicles were “put to use”. Since, vehicles were used for the business purpose of the assessee, i.e. transportation of employees, etc. they are eligible for higher rate of depreciation. In view of facts of the case, ground No.9 of appeal is allowed.

Ground No.10: Taxability of Interest Paid by Indian Branch to Head Office and other overseas branches: 18. The ld. Counsel for the assessee submitted that the assessee has paid interest to the tune of Rs.7.20 crores to Head Office and overseas branches. The Assessing Officer has taxed said interest in the hands of Head (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 Office/Overseas Branch under Article-12 of India France DTAA. The short contention of the assessee is that this issue is squarely covered by the decision of Special Bench in the case of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation vs. DDIT, 136 ITD 66 (Mum-SB). This is a recurring issue in assessee’s case. In Assessment Year 2005-06 similar issue had come up, the Tribunal placing reliance on the decision of Hon’ble High Court in the case of Steria India Ltd., 386 ITR 390 dismissed the ground raised in appeal by the Revenue.

18.1 Both sides heard. We find that identical issue has been decided by the Co-ordinate Bench in an appeal by the Revenue in for Assessment Year 2005-06 vide order dated 05/01/2018. The assessee has placed reliance on the decision in the case of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation vs. DDIT (supra) and Steria India Ltd. (supra). The Co-ordinate Bench dismissed the ground raised in appeal of Revenue. No contrary material has been bought to the notice of Bench to distinguish the decision taken by Co-ordinate Bench in assessee's own case in the preceding Assessment Year. Consequently, ground No.10 of the appeal is allowed for parity of reasons.

Ground No.11: Amount paid by the assessee to its Head Office towards credit risk assistance, EDP assistance, Head Office SI Charges, etc.

19.1 We find that in Assessment Year 2005-06,Assessing Officer held certain expenditure viz. interest on loan, interest paid on Nostro Account, etc. in the nature of FTS. The Tribunal placing reliance on the decision in the case of Steria India Ltd.(supra) decided the issue in favour of assessee. No contrary material has been placed on record by the Revenue. Following the decision of Co-ordinate Bench in assessee's own case on similar set of facts, ground of appeal No.11 is allowed.

Ground No.12 : Double Taxation of Direct Expenses:

21.1 We find that in Assessment Year 2005-06, the Assessing Officer had made addition in the hands of Singapore Branch and Hong Kong Branch in respect of interest on ECB loans. The Co-ordinate Bench decided this issue in favour of assessee, holding as under:

“10.3.We have heard the rival submissions.We find that the earnings on account of ECB loans can be classified into two categories namely interest and commission,that interest pertained to the loans funded by the Hong Kong and Singapore branches, that the India branch did not advance any funds for the loans,that commissions was received by the lead arrangers or Coleadarrangers, that the Indian entity would provide assistance in general relationship management and will provide assistance to Singapore entity,if required. It has been held,in both the matters,relied upon by the assessee,that the provisions of sub Articles (1) and (2) of Article 12 of India-France DTAA would apply only when recipient of interest was not having a permanent establishment in country where it had received interest. It is an undisputed fact that in the assessee'scase, banking operations were carried out by the PE in India.Besides,the PE was remunerated on an arm's length basis.In BNP Paribas SA (supra),it was held that once an enterprise was found to be carrying on the related (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 business or profession through a PE or a fixed base in the other contracting state, the scheme of taxability on the gross basis, as implicit in the taxation of dividend, interest, royalties and fees for technical services, and other incomes, under the tax treaties, would comes to an end. In Indo French DTAA, for example, articles 11(6), 12(5), 13(6) and 23(2) provide so.We are aware that in the case of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (136 ITD 66),the Special Bench has decided the issue in favour of the Department and against the assessee.But respectfully following the judgment of the Hon’ble Uttrakhand(supra),we decide ground no. 6 against the AO.” No contrary material or decision has been brought to the notice of Bench. We find no reason to take a contrary view on similar facts in the impugned assessment year. Hence, ground No.13 & 14 of appeal are allowed.

Ground No.15: Double Taxation of ECB Interest as income arising to Overseas branches on ECB to Indian borrowers and by way of Transfer Pricing adjustment income of Indian Branches: 22. We find that ground No.15 of appeal is consequential to ground No.13 & 14 of appeal. Since, we have allowed ground No.13 & 14 of appeal, ground No.15 becomes infructuous, hence, dismissed.

Ground No.16 & 17: Taxability in India of 50% of commission earned by Hongkong Branch on ECB to Indian borrowers and erroneous amount considered for the same in the computation ( i.e. Rs.3,01,77,577/- instead of Rs.9768,359/-).

23.1 We have examined the documents on record. We find that the issue with regard to taxability of commission earned by Hongkong Branch in respect of ECBs was subject matter of consideration before Co-ordinate Bench in assessee's own case for Assessment Year 2005-06 in appeal by the Department. The Co-ordinate Bench placing reliance on the decision of Hon'ble High Court in Income Tax Appeal No.1781 of 2014 (supra) dismissed the ground raised by Revenue. No contrary material has been placed before us by the Department to distinguish facts, hence, we see no reason to take a different view. Following the decision of Co-ordinate Bench in assessee's own case for Assessment Year 2005-06,ground No.16 & 17 of appeal are allowed for parity of reasons.

Ground No.18: Double Taxation of Commission on Income arising to Hongkong Branch: 24. The ground of 18 of appeal is consequential to ground No.16 & 17 above. Since we have allowed ground No.16 & 17 of appeal in favour of assessee, the ground of appeal No.18 has become infructuous, hence, the same is dismissed as such.

Ground No.19: Transfer Pricing Adjustment on Interest in respect of call placements and borrowings: 25. The ld.Counsel for the assessee submits that although the assessee does not accept the legality of the disallowance , however, due to smallness of amount involved, the assessee is not pressing this ground of appeal. (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014

In view of the statement made by ld.Counsel for the assessee at Bar, ground No.19 of appeal is dismissed as not pressed.

Ground No.20: Taxability in the hands of Indian Branch f Interest & commission arising to Overseas Branches in respect of ECB to Indian Borrowers: 26. The ld.Counsel for the assessee submitted that the Tribunal in Assessment Year 2005-06 in assessee's own case has held that adjustment should be made by taking into account only the fee and other charges received by the foreign branches from the borrowers of ECB and the rate of 20% estimated by the CIT(A) was held to be just and proper. The issue was carried in appeal before the Hon'ble Bombay High Court. The Hon'ble High Court has confirmed the view taken by the Tribunal.

26.1 Both sides are unanimous in stating that the issue raised in ground No.20 of appeal has been considered by the Co-ordinate Bench in Assessment Year 2005-06. We find that the issue is perennial. The Co-ordinate Bench while adjudicating this issue has in turn referred to the decision of Hon'ble Bombay High Court [Re. DIT vs. Caylon Bank 1748/2014 decided on 23/03/2017] wherein the view of Tribunal in Assessment Year 2002-03 and 2003-04 was confirmed. Respectfully following the decision of the Co-ordinate Bench on this issue, ground No.20 of the appeal is allowed protanto.

Ground No.21: Transfer Pricing Adjustment made in respect of commission earned by Indian Branch for marketing of derivative products (60% of INPV was attributed): (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014

27.1 Per contra, ld. Departmental Representative placed reliance on the findings of TPO and DRP and prayed for dismissing ground No.21 of appeal.

27.2 We have heard the submissions made by rival sides and have examined the orders of authorities below. A perusal of the TPO order dated 30/10/2009 shows that the TPO has recorded the fact that no independent enterprises in India is providing similar services to its foreign branches, hence, CUP cannot be applied. He further recorded that since, these products are not dealt by any Indian company, the data of such service providers are not available. Thereafter, the TPO referred to the Bank of America and JP Morgan Chase (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 Bank, where the profitsplit method was applied for benchmarking transactions of marketing derivative products. He also referred to 1995 OECD Report for use of controlled transactions. The TPO observed “ that evidence from enterprises may be useful in understanding the transactions with Associated Enterprises may be useful in understanding eh transaction under review or as pointer to further investigations”. However, we find that the TPO did not carry out any further investigation and applied the markup of 60% as was in the case of Bank of America NA and JP Morgan Chase Bank to make the upward adjustment of Rs.7,08,99,600/-. We find that the Tribunal in the case of Barclays Bank (supra), wherein the TPO in somewhat similar manner has made TP adjustment in respect of derivative transactions held as under:-

“ 5.3.We have heard the rival submissions and perused the material before us. We find that one of the divisions of the assessee i.e. Barclays Capital would handle the global derivative operations, that same included foreign exchange, interest rate, equity, commodity and credit derivatives, that the activities of the assessee were limited to marketing activities, that the AE.s were concluding the sale-transaction, that for the year under consideration the assessee was compensated at the rate of 24%(approximately)of the estimated day-1profit/loss from the said deals in accordance with the GTPP of the group, that the TPO had rejected the TNMM applied by the assessee and had used PSM for benchmarking the transaction of marketing of derivative products, that he concluded that risk relating to the derivative business remained partly in India and partly outside India and that the key assets in derivative were its people, that one of the foreign bank branch was being compensated at the rate of 60% for the same derivative business, that he made an addition of Rs.51.12 crores,that the FAA granted relief to the assessee.We find that the TPO had accepted, in principle, that the functional role of the assessee was limited to rendering the marketing services to overseas branches,that rest of the activities were handled by the AE.s.The derivative transaction does not end with marketing.It is a complex process.So,the AE would compensate the assessee for the services rendered to it.There would always be a relation between the compensation paid and availed services.The assessee had adopted the GTPP to determine ALP of the IT.s.In our opinion, there was no defect in its approach.On the other hand,method applied by the TPO and the details of controlled transactions,relied upon by him,were not (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 available in the public domain. The assessee did not have any opportunity to examine the comparability of FAR of the transactions selected by the TPO. In our opinion,use of untested comparables to determine the ALP is against the basic spirit of the TP provisions and the Rule 10 of the Rules The TPO had also violated the principles of natural Justice by not confronting the assessee with the comparables used against it. He proposed an addition of Rs. 51.12 crores to the income of the assessee without affording an opportunity to it,so that it could become aware of the basis for the adjustment.Only on this count the adjustment could be validly deleted. 5.4.But,we would like decide the issue on merits also.It is found that the assessee had followed GTPP for TP purposes,that as per the global policy the Indian branches- rendering the services and arranging for the sales of the derivative products for its customers from its foreign branches were to get at 24.40 percent of the INPV.The Appellant had carried out a TP study and had applied TNMM for determining the ALP.We find that the average cost plus margin of the uncontrolled comparables was 19% and in the assessee’s case,cost plus margin was 424%. If we look at these figures,it becomes clear that compensation received by the assessee from its AE for derivative deal was at arm’s length.INPV of a derivative transaction is calibrated based on projection of expected cash flow on a derivative transaction and applying appropriate discounting factor.INPV calculation can be different for different banks because of their functioning.So,in our opinion it would be inappropriate to apply for a uniform multiplier effect on the value of sales credit/INPV of derivative transactions. In other words, the INPV fixed by Indian branch of another foreign bank in India should not have been compared with the assessee case, because the above said branch of the foreign bank itself was dealing with its another AE. In short, we hold that the methodology adopted by the TPO,for determining the ALP of INPV of the derivative transactions,was incorrect from the very beginning and was fundamentally wrong.We would like to refer to the case of Technimont ICB(P.)Ltd.(supra) and it reads as under: "14. What is an 'uncontrolled transaction' has been clearly defined under Rule 10A(a) to mean 'a transaction between enterprises other than associated enterprises whether resident or nonresident'. A plain reading of the meaning given to the expression 'uncontrolled transaction1 leaves no room for any doubt that it is a transaction between two non-associated enterprises. If the transaction is between two associated enterprises, it goes out of the ambit of' uncontrolled transaction' under Rule 10A.When section 92C is read along with Rules 10B(e), and 10A, it becomes abundantly clear that in computing ALP under the transactional net margin method, a comparison of the assessee's net profit margin from international transactions with its AEs has necessarily to be made with that of the net pro fit margin realized by the same enterprise or an unrelated enterprise from a comparable but definitely uncontrolled transaction i.e., a transaction between non-associated enterprises. There is no (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 statutory sanction for roping in a comparable controlled transaction for the purposes of benchmarking. When it has been clearly mandated in all the relevant methods for determining ALP that the comparison has to be made by the enterprise's international transaction with comparable uncontrolled transaction, by no sheer logic a comparable controlled transaction can be employed for the purposes of making comparison. There is no warrant for diluting the prescription given by the statute or rules whensuch prescription itself serves the ends of justice properly and is infallible. If the view of the Revenue that a controlled transaction should not be shunted out for the purposes of benchmarking is accepted, then all the relevant provisions contained in Chapter X in this regard, will become otiose. If such a contention of making comparison with a comparable controlled transaction is taken to its logical conclusion, then there will never arise any need to take up any case for transfer pricing scrutiny. The reason is obvious. ALP is determined for application in respect of transactions between two AEs so that the profit likely to arise from such transactions is not under-reported vis-a-vis from similar transactions with third parties. If the comparison is made again with net profit margin realized from transactions between two AEs, instead of third parties, it may demonstrate the same cooked results in both the situations, thereby leaving no scope for any adjustment. In this eventuality, the very object of such provisions will be frustrated. Thus it follows that the ALP can be determined only by making comparison with a comparable uncontrolled transaction and not a comparable controlled transaction." We are of the opinion that the FAA had rightly held that the TPO was not justified in considering JP Morgan Chase Bank and Bank of America, NA having similar arrangements with their AEs as appropriate comparables for the aforesaid transaction. 5.5.We also find that the method applied by the TPO is not PSM as defined under the Rules.Rule 10B of the Rules stipulates that the for the purpose of applying PSM the Net Profit derived by the AE from the international transactions is to be considered. However, the TPO has made the adjustment by taking 60% of Day 1 INPV, which is a hypothetical value representing the gross surplus cash.In the matter of Johnson & Johnson Ltd. (247 Taxman 136) the Hon’ble Bombay High Court has held that the TPO is obliged under the law to determine the ALP by following any one of the prescribed methods of determining the ALP as detailed in Section 92C(1) of the Act,that the determination of the ALP has to be done only by following one of the method prescribed under the Act.We are also agreeable to the argument submitted by the assessee that the PSM can never be applied for benchmarking marketing support service functions. As per Rule 10B(d),PSM is applicable "mainly in IT.s involving transfer of unique intangibles or in multiple IT.s which are so inter-related that they (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 cannot be evaluated separately for the purpose of determining the ALP of any one transaction.” [Emphasized by us] We find that the manner and reason for making adjustment by the TPO in instant case is quiet similar to the adjustment made in case of Barclays Bank PLC. Thus, in the facts of the case and the decision rendered in the case of Barclays Bank PLC we find merit in ground No.21 of the appeal. The T.P adjustment is directed to be deleted for parity of reasons.

Ground No.22: Applicability of Section 115JB of the Act to the Banking companies: 28. The ld.Counsel for the assessee submits that the assessee is a Non- resident Foreign Banking Company. The Assessing Officer invoked the provisions of section 115JB of the Act to determine the book profits. The contention of the assessee is that assessee being a banking company does not maintain books of account in accordance with the provisions of Schedule -VI of the Companies Act, 1956, hence, the provisions of section 115JB are not attracted. The ld.Counsel for the assessee in support of his submissions placed reliance on the decision of Tribunal in for Assessment Year 2005-06 titled DCIT vs. Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank Ltd. decided on 30/06/2017. The ld.Counsel for the assessee further referred to the decision of Hon'ble Bombay High Court in the case of CIT vs. Union Bank of India in Income Tax Appeal No.1196 and 1175 of 2013 decided on 16/04/2019, wherein the Hon'ble Jurisdictional High Court held that the provisions of section 115JB of the Act prior to amendment by virtue of Finance Act, 2012 would not apply to a Banking Company. (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 28.1 We have considered the decisions on which the ld.Counsel for the assessee has placed reliance. We find that the Co-ordinate Bench in assessee's own case for Assessment Year 2005-06 in (supra) has held that the provisions of section 115JB of the Act does not apply to the assessee being a Banking Company. We further observe that the Hon'ble Bombay High Court in the case of CIT vs. Union Bank of India & Others has examined the issue threadbare and has finally held that section 115JB of the Act as it stood prior to its amendment by virtue of Finance Act, 2012 would not be applicable to Banking Company. Thus, in view of the law expounded by Hon'ble Jurisdictional High Court on this issue, ground No.22 of appeal is allowed.

Ground No.23: Without prejudice to the ground No.22, the assessee has raised a ground assailing addition of provision for FBT, Provisions for standard advances and disallowance u/s. 14A of the Act in determining Book Profits: 29. Since assessee succeeds on ground No.22, the alternate prayer made by the assessee has become infructuous, hence, ground No.23 of appeal is dismissed as infructuous.

Ground No.24: The assessee has assailed ;the findings of Assessing Officer in holding that income is taxable @40% as is applicable to Non-resident Banking Company: 30. The ld.Counsel for the assessee at the outset stated that this issue has been decided against the assessee by the Tribunal in Assessment Year 2005- 06. The ld.Counsel for the assessee submitted that however, while deciding the issue the Tribunal has merely placed reliance on the earlier decision of the (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 Tribunal in assessee's own case and have not examined the provisions of Explanation-1 to section 90 inserted by Finance Act, 2002 w.e.f. 01/04/1962. He submitted that the PE of overseas entity in India cannot be charged tax at a rate higher than the rate as applicable to a domestic company carrying out the same activities. To support his submissions, he placed reliance on the decision in the case Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi Bank Ltd. vs. CIT 108 taxmann.com 242 Calcutta. He further referred to Article – 7(3) and 26 the India -France DTAA.

30.1 Per contra, the ld. Departmental Representative vehemently placed reliance on the order of the Tribunal in assessee's own case for Assessment Year 2005-06.

30.2 We have heard the submissions made by rival sides. We find that the issue is perennial. The Co-ordinate Bench in appeal by the assessee for Assessment Year 2005-06 in has decided this issue against the assessee by placing reliance on the order of Tribunal and the Hon'ble Bombay High Court in the preceding years. The ld.Counsel for the assessee informed that the assessee is in appeal before Hon’ble High Court against the order of Tribunal for Assessment Year 1996-97 and the appeal is pending for final disposal. Taking into consideration entire facts, we see no reason to take a different view in the impugned assessment year. Hence, the issue of rate of tax in present appeal is decided in terms of the earlier order of the Tribunal in assessee's own case. Ground No.24 of appeal is dismissed.

Ground No.25: Levy of Interest u/s. 234B of the Act: (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014

Ground No.1 – Taxability of interest received by Assessee from Head Office(HO) /Overseas Branches on NOSTRO Accounts; Ground No.2: Disallowance of bank charges paid to HO/Overseas branches under section 40(a)(i) of the Act; Ground No.3: Allowability of direct expenses incurred by HO/Overseas Branch towards HO-System Implementation Charges, Regional Logistics Asia Pacific Costs (RLAP) and Electronic Data Processing(EDP) recharges and Information System Asia Pacific(ISAP) charges; Ground No.4: Disallowance u/s. 14A of the Act; Ground No.5 : Profit on re-valuation of unmatured forward forex contracts; Ground No.6: Netting off of interest u/s. 244A of the Act against interest u/s.234D of the Act; Ground No.7: Restricting of depreciation on motor cars to 15% as against the claim of 40%; (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 Ground No.8: Taxability in the hands of assessee (Indian Branch) of interest and commission arising to overseas branches in respect of ECB to Indian borrowers; Ground No.9: Transfer Pricing Adjustment made in respect of commission earned by assessee (Indian Branch) for marking of derivative products (60% INPV) was attributed; Ground No.10: Taxation of income of assessee at a rate as applicable to Non- resident company; Additional ground raised by way of application dated 15/01/2016: “ The Assessing Officer (AO) ought to have granted credit for taxes deducted by the India branch on Head Office System Implementation charges, Regional Logistics Asia Pacific costs & EDP recharge and Information Systems Asia Pacific charges.”

Ground No.1: Taxability of interest paid to HO/Overseas Branches u/s. 40(a)(i) of the Act:

Ground No.2: Deductibility of Direct expenses towards credit risk assistance and EDP assistance provided by HO to Indian Branches; Ground No.3: Interest received u/s. 244A of the Act liable to tax at a rate prescribed in Article-12 of DTAA between India and France, Ground No.4:Taxability of interest paid by Indian Branch to HO and other overseas branches; (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 Ground No.5: Amount paid by assessee to Head Office towards credit risk assistance, EDP assistance, Head Office System Implementation, etc.; Ground No.6: Taxability of ECB interest arising to Singapore Branch in India in respect of ECB of Indian Borrowers; Ground No.7: Taxability of ECB interest arising to Hong Kong Branch in India in respect of ECB of Indian Borrowers; Ground No.8: Taxability in India of 50% of commission earned by Hong Kong branch on ECB to Indian Borrowers,

ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014-A.Y.2008-09 - ASSESSEE’S APPEAL: –A.Y.2008-09 – REVENUES APPEAL:

Ground No.1 – Taxability of interest received by Assessee from Head Office (HO)/Overseas Branches on NOSTRO Accounts(Same as ground No.1 in appeal for AY 2006-07); Ground No.2: Disallowance of bank charges paid to HO/Overseas branches under section 40(a)(i) of the Act(Same as ground No.3 in appeal for AY 2006- 07); Ground No.3: Allowability of direct expenses incurred by HO/Overseas Branch towards HO-System Implementation Charges, Regional Logistics Asia Pacific Costs (RLAP) and Electronic Data Processing(EDP) recharges and Information System Asia Pacific(ISAP) charges(Same as ground No.5 in appeal for AY 2006- 07); Ground No.4: Disallowance towards the provision made in respect of standard assets, derivative exposures and country risk:The Ld. Counsel for the assessee submitted that the issue is recurring and in the preceding assessment years the issue has been considered by the Tribunal. We find that in assessment year 2003-04, 2004-05 and 2005-06 similar provision for country risk was made by (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 the assessee. The CIT(A) in the impugned assessment year has rejected the claim of assessee following the reason given by his predecessor in Assessment Year 2005- 06. The co-ordinate Bench while deciding the appeal of aassessee for assessment year 2005-06 in turn following the order of Tribunal in assessee’s own case for assessment year 2004- 05 dismissed the ground. The Tribunal in assessment year 2003- 04 and 2004- 05 decided the issue against the assessee placing reliance on the decision of Special Bench in the case of Net India Industries Limited vs. ACIT 18 SOT 51. We see no reason to take a different view on parity of facts. Thus, ground no. 4 of appeal is dismissed.

Ground No.5: Transfer Pricing Adjustment on interest in respect of call placements and borrowings(Same as ground No.19 in appeal for AY 2006-07); Ground No.6: Taxability in the hands of assessee (Indian Branch) of interest and commission arising to overseas branches in respect of ECB to Indian borrowers(Same as ground No.20 in appeal for AY 2006-07); Ground No.7: Transfer Pricing Adjustment made in respect of commission earned by assessee (Indian Branch) for marking of derivative products (60% INPV)(Same as ground No.21 in appeal for AY 2006-07); Ground No.8. Deduction u/s.35DDA of the Act for expenses incurred on voluntary/early retirement plan and voluntary separation plan during Assessment Year 2004-05: the ld. Counsel for the assessee submitted that the assessee had filed an application under section 154 of the Act before the Assessing Officer. The Assessing Officer vide order dated 16/11/2021 allowed (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 the deduction u/s.35DDA of the Act, therefore, the ground has become infructuous.

In view of the statement made by ld. Counsel for the assessee, ground no.8 of appeal by the assessee is dismissed as infructuous.

Ground No.9: Deduction u/s. 35DD of the Act for amalgamation and major expenses incurred during Assessment Year 2005-06: The ld.Counsel for the assessee submits that the assessee has incurred expenses to the tune of Rs.9,93,71,998/- towards restructuring in Assessment Year 2005-06. The Assessing Officer invoked the provisions of section 35DD of the Act. Accordingly, 1/5th expenditure was to be amortized over a period of five years. However, the Assessing Officer allowed amortization of 50% of the 1/5th expenditure, i.e. as against Rs.1,98,74,400/- only Rs.99,37,200/- were allowed by the Assessing Officer on the ground of lack of documentation. The findings of Assessing Officer were upheld by the CIT(A). The assessee filed application u/s. 154 of the Act dated 01/03/2012 before the Assessing Officer. The CIT(A) in impugned Assessment Year directed the Assessing Officer to expeditiously dispose off the said application of assessee. The Assessing Officer purportedly allowed deduction of balance 50% amount in proceedings u/s. 154 of the Act. The ld. Counsel for the assessee submitted that since amortization of entire 1/5th amount has been allowed to assessee in AY 2005-06, the relief in impugned Assessment Year and the subsequent Assessment Years i.e.AY 2008- 09 and 2009-10 being part of five year block is allowable being consequential. (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014

The facts have not been disputed by the Revenue. As sequitur to the relief allowed in AY 2005-06, the assessee’s claim of amortization of 1/5th amount is allowed.

Ground No.10: Restricting of depreciation on motor cars to 15% as against the claim of 40%. (Same as ground No.9 in appeal for AY 2006-07); Ground No.11: Relief of Canadian Tax of Rs.5,917/- u/s.90 of the Act: The ld. Counsel submitted that though the assessee does not accept the legality of disallowance, however, due to smallness of the amount, it chooses not to press the ground. In view of the statement made by ld. Counsel, ground no.11 of appeal is dismissed as not pressed.

Ground No.12: The assessee has assailed the finding of Assessing Officer in holding that income of the assessee is taxable at a rate (40%), as applicable to non-resident company. (Same as ground No.24 in appeal for AY 2006-07)

Ground No.1: Disallowance of interest paid to HO/Overseas Branches u/s. 40(a)(i) of the Act. (Same as ground No.2 in appeal by the assessee for AY 2006-07); Ground No.2: Allowability of Direct expenses towards credit risk assistance and EDP Assistance provided by HO to Indian Branches. (Same as ground No.4 in appeal by the assessee for AY 2006-07); (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 Ground No.3: Taxability of interest paid by Indian Branch to HO and other overseas branches.(Same as ground No.10 in appeal by the assessee for AY 2006-07); Ground No.4: Amount paid by assessee to Head Office towards credit risk assistance, EDP Assistance, Head Office System Implementation, etc.(Same as ground No.11 in appeal by the assessee for AY 2006-07); Ground No.5: Taxability of ECB interest arising from Singapore Branch in India in respect of ECB of Indian Borrowers. (Same as ground No.13 in appeal by the assessee for AY 2006-07); Ground No.6: Taxability of ECB interest arising from Hong Kong Branch in India in respect of ECB of Indian Borrowers. (Same as ground No.14 in appeal by the assessee for AY 2006-07); Ground No.7: Taxability in India of 50% of commission earned by Hong Kong branch on ECB to Indian Borrowers. (Same as ground No.16 & 17 in appeal by the assessee for AY 2006-07).

38.1 Apart from the similar issues recurring over the Assessment Years there are certain fresh issues in appeal by the assessee. The findings on the fresh grounds have been given independently.

ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014-A.Y.2009-10 – ASSESSEE’SAPPEAL –A.Y.2009-10 – REVENUES APPEAL C.O NO.140/MUM/2014-A.Y. 2009-10 – BY ASSESSEE

Ground No.1: Disallowance of bank charges paid to HO/Overseas branches by under section 40(a)(i) of the Act. (Same as ground No.2 in appeal for AY 2006- 07); Ground No.2: Allowability of Direct expenses towards credit risk assistance and EDP Assistance provided by HO to Indian Branches. (Same as ground No.4 in appeal for AY 2006-07); Ground No.3: Allowability of direct expenses incurred by HO/Overseas Branch towards HO-System Implementation Charges, Regional Logistics Asia Pacific Cost(RLAP) and Electronic Data Processing(EDP) recharges and Information System Asia Pacific(ISAP) charges. (Same as ground No.5 in appeal for AY 2006- 07); (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 Ground No.4: Disallowance towards the provision made in respect of standard assets, derivative exposures and country risk. (Same as ground No.4 in appeal for AY 2008-09)

Ground No.5: Restricting of depreciation on motor cars to 15% as against the claim of 40%, (Same as ground No.9 in appeal for AY 2006-07); Ground No.6: Amount paid by assessee to Head Office towards credit risk assistance, EDP Assistance, Head Office System Implementation, etc.(Same as ground No.11 in appeal for AY 2006-07); Ground No.7: Taxability of ECB interest arising to Singapore Branch in India in respect of ECB of Indian Borrowers. (Same as ground No.13 in appeal for AY 2006-07)

Ground No.8 Taxability of ECB interest arising to London Branch in India in respect of ECB to Indian Borrowers: The facts in ground no.8 of appeal are similar to facts in ground No. 7 and 9 of the appeal. The Tribunal in AY 2005-06 in respect of Singapore and Hong Kong Branch has decided the issue in favour of assessee. For parity of reasons ECB interest arising to London Branch in India in respect of ECB to Indian Borrowers is not taxable in India. Thus ground no.8 is allowed.

Ground No.9: Taxability of ECB interest arising to Hong Kong Branch in India in respect of ECB of Indian Borrowers. (Same as ground No.14 in appeal for AY 2006-07); (A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 Ground No.10: Double taxation of ECB interest as income arising to Overseas Branches on ECB to Indian Borrowers. (Same as ground No.15 in appeal for AY 2006-07); Ground No.11: Taxability in India of 50% of commission earned by Hong Kong branch on ECB to Indian Borrowers. (Same as ground No.16 & 17 in appeal for AY 2006-07); Ground No.12: Transfer Pricing adjustment in respect of commission income being twice charged to tax. (Same as ground No.15 in appeal for AY 2006-07); Ground No.13: Taxability in the hands of assessee (Indian Branch) of interest and commission arising to overseas branches in respect of ECB to Indian borrowers. (Same as ground No.20 in appeal for AY 2006-07); Ground No.14.: Transfer Pricing Adjustment made in respect of commission earned by assessee (Indian Branch) for marking of derivative products (60% INPV).(Same as ground No.21 in appeal for AY 2006-07); Ground No.15: Transfer Pricing Adjustment on interest in respect of call placements and borrowings. (Same as ground No.19 in appeal for AY 2006-07)

Additional Ground Vide application dated 15/01/2016

“The Assessing Officer (AO) ought to have granted credit for taxes deducted by the India branch on Head Office System Implementation charges, Regional Logistics Asia Pacific costs & EDP recharge and Information Systems Asia Pacific charges.”

(A.Y.2006-07) ITA NO.3103/MUM/2014(A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1503/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1504/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) (A.Y.2007-08) ITA NO.1483/MUM/2014(A.Y.2008-09) ITA NO.1868/MUM/2014(A.Y.2009-10) C.O. No.140/MUM/2014 (Same as Additional Ground in appeal for AY 2006-07)

Additional Ground Vide application dated 07/02/2023

“The learned AO erred in not granting complete deduction of INR 1,98,74,400 being one fifth of amalgamation and merger expenses of INR 9,93,71,998 incurred during Assessment Year 2005-06.” (Same as ground No.9 in appeal for AY 2008-09)

Ground No.1: Taxability of interest paid to HO/Overseas Branches u/s. 40(a)(i) of the Act. (Same as ground No.2 in appeal by the assessee for AY 2006-07); Ground No.2: Disallowance towards the provision made in respect of standard assets, derivative exposures and country risk. (Same as ground No.4 in appeal by the assessee for AY 2008-09)

Ground No.3:Taxability of interest paid by Indian Branch to HO and other overseas branches. (Same as ground No.10 in appeal by the assessee for AY 2006-07)

C.O NO.140/MUM/2014 – A.Y. 2009-10 – BYASSESSEE:

“ Without prejudice to its stand that the interest paid by the India branch of the Bank to its Head Office (‘HO’) and overseas branches (‘OB’) is deductible expenditure even though no tax was deducted at source, in the event the interest so paid by the India branch to its HO/OB is held to be not deductible, the interest received by the India branch from its HO and OB may not be taxable.”

Order pronounced in the open court on Monday the11th day of September, 2023.