Nitin Agarwal v. ITO (No. 2) (2024) 460 ITR 323 (Cal) (HC)

S. 148A: Reassessment-Conducting inquiry, providing opportunity before issue of notice-Unexplained expenditure-Bogus purchases)-No opportunity of personal hearing granted-Violation of principle of natural justice-Matter remanded-The assessee is directed to file objections with supportive documents. [S. 148A(b) 148A(d), Art. 226]

On writ the The Hon’ble High Court  observed that the assessee was not provided the opportunity of personal hearing. Therefore, the assessing officr while passing the order under section 148A(d) violated the principles of natural justice. Accordingly, the Hon’ble HC held that the order passed under section 148A(d) is to be treated as a notice under section 148A(b). Further, the Hon’ble High Court  directed the assessee to file further objection along with supportive documents and the assessing officer to pass fresh order after granting opportunity for personal hearing.(AY. 2019-20)