A Mumbai mechanic has received a goods and services tax notice demanding Rs 31.80 crore, in a case he says involves the misuse of his identity to run a company and conduct high-value transactions.

The notice, reported on October 1, alleges large transactions routed through a company set up in his name. The mechanic has told authorities that his identity documents were misused without his knowledge.

Identity theft for GST fraud has emerged as a recurring problem, with fraudsters using stolen PAN and Aadhaar details to register shell companies and claim fake input tax credits. Genuine individuals often discover the fraud only when tax notices arrive.

Tax authorities have been tightening verification for GST registrations, including biometric checks in several states, to curb fake registrations. Officials say data analytics now flag mismatches between declared turnover and the profile of the registrant.

The mechanic’s case will turn on whether investigators can establish that the transactions were carried out without his knowledge or consent. He is expected to file a formal complaint of identity misuse.

Experts advise citizens to regularly check their GST and income-tax portals for unknown registrations and to report discrepancies immediately.