Kochi tax authorities demand ₹1,816 crore from BPCL over disputed pre-merger refinery valuations from 2004–2006.

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) has been issued a ₹1,816.65 crore excise demand by Kochi tax authorities, covering duty, interest, and a small penalty, stemming from 19 show cause notices related to pre-merger operations of Kochi Refineries Ltd between 2004 and 2006. The demand arises from a valuation dispute under Central Excise law, with authorities rejecting BPCL’s pricing method and applying a higher valuation rule. BPCL plans to challenge the order before the Customs, Excise and Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT).