2016 (6) TMI 956 - PUNJAB & HARYANA HIGH COURT

Demand of duty based on statement recorded u/s 14 of the Central Excise Act, 1944 - flagrant violation of Section 9D by relying upon statements without admitting them in evidence by following the prescribed procedure contained therein. - Held that:- In fact, Section 138 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, clearly sets out the sequence of evidence, in which evidence-in-chief has to precede cross-examination, and cross-examination has to precede re-examination. - , respondent no. 2 is directed to adjudicate the Show Cause Notice issued to the writ petitioners by following the procedure contemplated by Section 9D of the Act and the law laid down by various judicial authorities in this regard, including the principles of natural justice. - Matter remanded back.