Nokia India Pvt. Ltd. v. Add. CIT (2020) 82 ITR 16 ((SN)(Delhi) Trib)

S. 40(a)(ia): Amount not deductible -Deduction at source – Fees for professional or technical services – Discount offered to distributors – Non -Resident – Not liable to deduct tax at source- Allowable as expenditure [ S. 9(1) (vi), 37(1) , 194J , 195 ]S. 40(a)(ia): Amount not deductible -Deduction at source – Fees for professional or technical services – Discount offered to distributors – Non -Resident – Not liable to deduct tax at source- Allowable as expenditure [ S. 9(1) (vi), 37(1) , 194J , 195 ]

Tribunal held that the  relationship between the assessee and its holding company was that of  Principal and  Principal and not that of  Principal and agent. The discount which was offered to the distributors was given for promotion of  sales. This element could not be treated as commission.  Accordingly no disallowance can be made for failure to deduct tax at source . ( AY.2011-12)