MAM
Sujata Bhakat takes charge as south region head at Times Internet
BENGALURU: Times Internet has appointed Sujata Bhakat as its new region head – south, strengthening its leadership bench as it sharpens focus on regional expansion.
Bhakat joins from Network18 Media & Investments, where she has served as senior manager since 2022. In her new role, she will lead growth initiatives across southern India, deepen client partnerships and expand the company’s presence in high-potential markets.
Announcing the move on LinkedIn, Bhakat said she was excited to begin her new position at Times Internet.
Before Network18, she held senior roles at Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd, Dun & Bradstreet, Radio Mirchi and IFB Industries. She began her career in 2010 as assistant manager – marketing at IFB Industries, building early expertise in brand and marketing strategy.
With over 14 years of experience, Bhakat brings a strong background in key account management, business development, sales, marketing strategy and vendor management, positioning her to steer Times Internet’s regional ambitions in a competitive digital landscape.
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI: Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
