Customs Penalty Overturned: Social Connection Insufficient to Prove Smuggling Involvement in Red Sanders Export Case

CESTAT adjudicated a customs penalty case involving attempted export of prohibited red sanders through misrepresentation as unaccompanied baggage. After comprehensive review, the tribunal determined that the appellant had no substantive involvement in the smuggling operation beyond a peripheral social connection. Consequently, the tribunal set aside the Rs. 5 lakh penalty imposed against the appellant, finding insufficient evidence to substantiate direct participation in the illicit export attempt. The appellate order effectively exonerated the individual from liability, recognizing the absence of direct culpability in the customs violation. Appeal was allowed, quashing the original penalty order. .....

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