2000 (3) TMI 233 - AT - Central Excise

Issues:
1. Imposition of penalty on M/s. Akai Impex under the Customs Act and Central Excise Act.
2. Deprivation of the benefit of hearing and contravention of principles of natural justice.
3. Financial hardship claim by the company.
4. Failure to address submissions regarding the origin of polyester yarn and customs duty.
5. Prima facie case for deposit of customs duty and penalties.
6. Lack of specific allegations for penalty imposition under Rule 209A.
7. Imposition of penalty on individuals involved in the transportation of goods.
8. Waiver of deposits and stay on recovery of penalties and duty.

Issue 1: Imposition of Penalty on M/s. Akai Impex
The Commissioner imposed penalties on M/s. Akai Impex under the Customs Act and Central Excise Act for allegedly exporting goods intended for domestic sale without duty payment. This was based on the misuse of the 100% Export Oriented Unit (EOU) status and failure to follow Customs Act provisions. Penalties were also imposed on company officials.

Issue 2: Deprivation of Benefit of Hearing
The common advocate for M/s. Akai Impex argued that they were denied a fair hearing as the request for cross-examination was not clearly addressed by the Commissioner. The departmental representative contended that cross-examination is not an absolute right, citing legal precedent. The Tribunal found no failure of natural justice as cross-examination cannot be demanded as a right unless justified.

Issue 3: Financial Hardship Claim
A claim of financial hardship was raised due to a winding-up petition filed by a creditor. However, the company's financial statements showed a strong financial position, undermining the hardship claim. The Tribunal noted ongoing capital investments and lack of evidence supporting financial deterioration.

Issue 4: Failure to Address Submissions
The Commissioner did not address submissions regarding the origin of polyester yarn and the applicability of customs duty. The Tribunal found a prima facie case in favor of the applicant concerning the deposit of customs duty and penalties.

Issue 5: Lack of Specific Allegations for Penalty Imposition
Concerning Rule 209A penalties, specific allegations regarding the role of the person must be made. As this was not done in one case, the Tribunal waived the deposit of penalties imposed.

Issue 6: Imposition of Penalty on Individuals
Penalties were imposed on individuals involved in transporting goods, but the Tribunal found no evidence of their knowing involvement in duty evasion. Therefore, the deposit of penalties imposed on them was waived.

Issue 7: Waiver of Deposits and Stay on Recovery
The Tribunal ordered specific deposits by the company and individuals, waived certain penalties, and stayed the recovery of remaining penalties and duty. Compliance was required by a specified date.

In conclusion, the judgment addressed various issues including penalty imposition, natural justice concerns, financial hardship claims, failure to address submissions, specific allegations for penalties, and individual penalties. The Tribunal made decisions on deposits, penalties, and duty recovery, ensuring fairness and compliance within the legal framework.

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