2006 (6) TMI 403 - AT - Central Excise

Summary

Issues: Violation of principles of natural justice in passing the impugned order.

In this case, the applicant filed an application for waiver of pre-deposit of duty and penalty, contending that the impugned order was passed in violation of the principles of natural justice. The timeline of events showed that a show-cause notice was issued on 5-10-05, followed by the supply of relied upon documents to the applicant on 12-11-05. Despite requests for more time to prepare a defense, the adjudicating authority passed the order on 30-11-05, without granting an effective opportunity to defend the charge. The Tribunal found that the order was indeed passed in violation of natural justice, as the applicant did not receive a fair chance to present their case. Consequently, the impugned order was set aside, and the pre-deposit of duty and penalties was waived. The matter was remanded to the adjudicating authority for a fresh decision after affording the applicant an opportunity for a personal hearing. The appeal was disposed of by way of remand, ensuring fairness and adherence to the principles of natural justice.