Fruit Juice-Based Drinks Correctly Classified Under Tariff Item 2202 99 20, Not 2202 10 90; Section 74 Penalties Set Aside

HC determined the petitioner's products were correctly classified under Tariff Item 2202 99 20 as "fruit pulp or fruit juice-based drinks" rather than under 2202 10 90 as "waters containing added sugar or flavoured." The court held that classification depends on the dominant nature of the product, with the presence of fruit juice attributing essential character to the beverage. The Revenue failed to discharge its burden of proof by not providing alternative test reports. The court set aside penalties under Section 74 of CGST Act, finding no evidence of willful suppression or fraud. Interest levied under Section 50 was also invalidated, and the court clarified that post-October 2021 tax notifications could not be applied retrospectively. .....

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