Establishes Method for Gunny Bag Depreciation: Straight-Line Method Prevails: P&H HC
In a groundbreaking judgment handed down on October 3, 2023, the High Court has resolved a long-standing dispute over the method for calculating the depreciation of reused gunny bags. The judgment establishes that the straight-line method, as prescribed by Central Government instructions dated May 24, 2013, will prevail for both the first and second use of these bags.
The High Court’s observation stated, “The Central Government has consciously decided that the rate as well as the method of calculation of depreciation in the case of reused gunny bags. The rate of depreciation for the first and second use is 40% of the original value, meaning the straight-line method would be followed.”
This ruling comes after years of uncertainty and conflicting interpretations of guidelines related to the reuse of gunny bags used for grain storage. The judgment has significant implications for millers and government agencies involved in grain procurement.
Additionally, the High Court dismissed the argument that the Central Government’s instructions dated November 1, 2013, made the guidelines prospective, stating that these instructions contradicted the standing guidelines of May 24, 2013. The court emphasized that the instructions remained applicable unless explicitly superseded by the Central Government.
As a result of this judgment, the parties involved are directed to decide claims based on the instructions dated May 24, 2013, for the relevant financial years. This decision brings much-needed clarity to the calculation of depreciation for reused gunny bags, ending years of ambiguity and legal disputes.
Date of Decision: 03.10.2023
M/s J.K. Enterprises vs Union of India and Others
