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2022 (11) TMI 639 - HC - CustomsLevy of penalty on CHA u/s 112(a) and 114A of the Customs Act - undervaluation of goods - it is alleged that the appellant as CHA has abetted the importer to undervalue the goods and that the appellant had prior knowledge as to the actual value of the imported goods - samadhan scheme - Confiscation - HELD THAT:- Where the benefit has been granted under the Samadhan Scheme to the main party, that benefit must also enure in favour of the other co-noticees and it would be unreasonable and discriminatory if the benefit is not extended. Once an order of settlement is passed by the Settlement Commission, the entire dispute comes to an end and thereafter, the case cannot be adjudicated qua the other co-noticees - In this case, the Settlement Commission found that the importer had made true and full disclosure of all the facts relating to imported goods. The Commission also took into consideration the additional amount of Customs duty and interest paid by the importer. Accordingly, the importer was granted immunity from prosecution, fine and penalty. If the proceedings against the importer has thus come to an end, it will be discriminatory and unfair to continue the proceedings as against the CHA in relation to the very same transaction. The order of the Customs and Central Excise Settlement Commission, dated 30.11.2010 granting immunity to the importer from prosecution, fine and penalty, will also enure to the benefit of the appellant. The substantial questions of law having been answered in favour of the appellant, this Court holds that the appellant is not liable to pay any penalty - Appeal allowed.
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