The AO has relied on the decision of the Hon'ble ITAT in the case of
Hatkesh Co-operative Housing Society Vs ITO(1997)50 ITD 662(Mumbai)
wherein it is held that transfer fees received by a co-operative society by an
outgoing member are taxable receipts and the concept of mutually does not
apply.
16. On consideration of various aspects, in our considered opinion, the situation in this case is not such as may be perceived to be falling in the ambit of the principle of mutuality. The contribution made in this case can by no means be said to be voluntary or with a view to reap advantages of contribution at a later date. Contribution is made under compulsion, as rightly stated in the decision of the Tribunal in the case of Hatkesh Cooperative Housing Society Ltd. (supra), with a view only to remove the clog put by society on the absolute ownership of the transferor. Hon'ble Bombay High Court have held that by such bye-laws the society created a source of income in its favour. Contribution to this income pool of the society is not by the members of the society in general but only by those few members who opt to transfer their proprietary rights in favour of third party. The benefit is to be reaped by the members who continue their membership. In our opinion, much cannot be made of the fact that at the point of time the contribution was made by the transferor he was still a member of the society. The stark fact is that the contribution is made on the eve of cessation to be a member.