“The law is common for everyone!” a statement echoed in the Supreme Court on 7 November 2024, firmly dismissing a total of 93 appeals that challenged the application of Tax Deduction at Source (TDS) on the salaries of nuns and priests from the Catholic Church who serve as teachers in aided institutions.
Even though Catholic nuns and priests do not earn a taxable income, or get provident funds, the Court, citing Section 192 of the Income Tax Act, held that an individual’s religious affiliation does not impact their TDS obligation.
Nevertheless, the long-awaited CIM’s Income Tax Seminar in Kochi on 26 November at Cardinal Parecattil Memorial Renewal Centre, came as a timely resource to many Catholic institutions in Kerala and its surrounding states of Tamil Nadu. The seminar was coordinated by CIM’s Mr Miracle and Mr Allwin.
The seminar, which had 86 participants, predominantly sisters and fathers from various Catholic institutes, was a great success. CA Johney Pallivathukkal from Johney & Co., Edappally, led the whole session, accompanied by his daughter, Mrs Neenu Johney, who conducted a session on mandatory books of accounts. Ms Minna Jose, a colleague from his firm, handled sessions on TDS. The sessions were highly interactive, with participation from experienced professionals, including internal audit generals, board members, CEOs, and finance heads.
The participants mentioned that the sessions were detailed and interesting, making them grasp the necessary information on Income Tax quickly. One of the sisters, who participated in the seminar said, “This morning I came with no expectation because I believed it was unrelated to me. But going back now, I know how serious things are.” She exclaimed that it felt like being taken into the ocean and shown a glimpse of some precious pearls. She said, “This is a vast subject. Even though we understood little, we are taking it because this is a serious matter.”
Another sister from a convent mentioned, “It is our responsibility, as well as for the common good of our province and institution… Whatever we do, we will have light coming out of our responsibilities.” She thanked the resource persons and CIM staff for arranging such an important event. And her final feedback to CIM was, “You made sure we understood”.