Bajaj Auto Limited has received a penalty order of ₹17.74 lakh from tax authorities in Pune related to GST compliance issues for the financial year 2021-22. The company disclosed this development through a regulatory filing under the Securities and Exchange Board of India listing regulations.

Penalty Details and Background

The penalty order was issued by the Deputy Commissioner of State Tax, Pune, under Section 73(9) of the Maharashtra GST Act, 2017.

Nature of Violation

The penalty has been levied due to excess Input Tax Credit availed as compared to Form GSTR-2B for the financial year 2021-22. This indicates a discrepancy between the input tax credit claimed by the company and what was reflected in the auto-populated GSTR-2B form, which contains details of inward supplies.

Company's Response and Impact Assessment

Bajaj Auto has stated that the order is appealable and the company plans to take appropriate legal remedies as per law. The automotive manufacturer has assessed that there will be no material financial impact on the company due to this penalty order.

The disclosure was made pursuant to Regulation 30 of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, which requires listed companies to inform stock exchanges about material events and developments that could impact the company.

The final week maintained a measured pace in India's automobile sector, with manufacturers focusing on strategic updates rather than major launches. While the market remained relatively quiet, key players including Kawasaki and Bajaj Auto delivered notable refreshes in the two-wheeler segment, while automotive giants Renault and Mahindra built anticipation for their future product pipeline.

Kawasaki's 650cc Refresh Strategy

Kawasaki rolled out updated versions of two popular 650cc models, emphasizing compliance and aesthetic enhancements. The Ninja 650 features a refreshed Lime Green paint scheme complemented by minor graphics updates and an E20-compliant engine. The motorcycle retains its core mechanical specifications, including the 649cc twin-cylinder powerplant, KTRC traction control system, and 4.3-inch TFT display.

The Versys 650 received similar treatment with a distinctive dual-tone Metallic Graphite Gray/Metallic Spark Black finish, maintaining its position as a mid-segment touring motorcycle while incorporating mandatory E20 fuel compatibility.

Bajaj Auto Modernizes Classic Pulsar

Bajaj Auto introduced significant lighting upgrades to the Pulsar 150, marking a milestone in the model's evolution. The updated motorcycle now features comprehensive LED lighting technology, including a full-LED headlamp setup, daytime running lights, and LED indicators. This represents the first instance of complete LED integration in the classic Pulsar lineup, while maintaining the familiar chassis architecture.

Upcoming Launches Generate Market Interest

Despite the absence of immediate car launches, Renault and Mahindra successfully maintained market attention through strategic preview campaigns. Renault continued its teaser campaign for the new-generation Duster through promotional content. The preview materials revealed connected LED tail lamp technology, distinctive wide DRLs, and design elements that reference the original model's aesthetic language.

The French manufacturer has indicated a future debut for the SUV, with expectations pointing toward turbocharged petrol engine options and enhanced cabin technology. Mahindra maintained visibility for the Thar 3-Door facelift, suggesting updates including a revised front grille and features potentially influenced by the recently unveiled Thar Roxx variant.

Market Outlook and Industry Momentum

The concluding period demonstrated the industry's strategic approach to product updates, with manufacturers prioritizing compliance enhancements and incremental improvements over major launches. The two-wheeler segment showed particular focus on E20 fuel compatibility, reflecting regulatory requirements and environmental considerations. The future appears positioned for increased market activity, with the anticipated Renault Duster launch and potential Mahindra Thar updates leading the momentum.