2009 (2) TMI 742 - HC - Central Excise

Summary

Issues:
1. Dispute over wastage generated during manufacturing process
2. Show cause notice for demanding duty amount
3. Coercive recovery of duty amount before adjudication of show cause notices
4. Petitioner seeking quashing of subsequent notice and refund of amount
5. Request for writ of mandamus to adjudicate show cause notice

Analysis:
1. The petitioner, an export-oriented unit, faced a dispute regarding the claim towards wastage generated during manufacturing, which required showing corresponding export value. The petitioner claimed benefits under Notification No. 52/2003.

2. The Deputy Commissioner of Customs issued a show cause notice demanding duty amount for excess wastage availed, leading to a subsequent notice with revised duty amount. The petitioner responded to both notices, but they were not adjudicated.

3. The petitioner alleged coercive recovery of Rs. 14.35 lakhs without proper adjudication. The petitioner sought quashing of the subsequent notice, arguing it was against customs duty norms for export units and used to coerce payment.

4. The petitioner's counsel argued for refund of the recovered amount and quashing of unadjudicated notices. The court noted that the payment, whether under coercion or not, could be subject to refund through proper legal channels, not via a writ of mandamus.

5. The court dismissed the writ petition, stating that while the petitioner could seek refund through legal means, issuing a writ of mandamus for an unascertained amount was not appropriate. The petitioner was advised to pursue the matter before the relevant authority for adjudication of the show cause notices.