2008 (2) TMI 850 - SC - VAT and Sales Tax

Whether Section 47A of the Indian Stamp Act as amended by A.P. Act 8 of 1998 which requires a party to deposit 50% deficit stamp duty as a condition precedent for a reference to the Collector under Section 47A is unconstitutional?

Held that:- Constitutional validity of the amended Section 47A of the Stamp Act is upheld - The impugned amendment is an economic measure, whose aim is to plug the loopholes and secure speedy realization of stamp duty, thus the said amendment, being an economic measure, cannot be said to be unconstitutional. Appeal allowed.