SUJIT KANTILAL RATHOD,KOLHAPUR vs. INCOME TAX OFFICER WARD-1, ICHALKARANJI, ICHALKARANJI

This appeal at the instance of assessee is directed against the order of the Ld. CIT(A)/National Faceless Appeal Centre, Delhi dated 18.07.2024 for Assessment Year 2017-18.

When the appeal was called for, none appeared on behalf of the assessee. On the previous date of hearing also fixed for 01.01.2025 and 25.02.2025 there was no representation on behalf of the assessee. We, therefore, proceed to adjudicate the appeal on the basis of available records and the assistance of Ld. Departmental Representative.

Sole issue raised for our consideration is regarding the addition of Rs.15,00,000/- made u/s 69A of the Act for the alleged unexplained source of cash payment.

We have heard the Ld. DR and perused the record placed before us. Perusal of the impugned order indicates that the Ld. CIT(A) did not condone the delay of five months in filing of the appeal by the assessee and accordingly dismissed the appeal in limine. We observe that the assessment order was framed on 28.03.2022 and the Covid limitation period was still inforce up to the end of May, 2022. Considering this aspect and taking a liberal view and being fair to both the parties, we deem it appropriate to condone the delay in filing of the appeal before the Ld. CIT(A) and restore the issue raised on merits to the file of the Ld. CIT(A) for necessary adjudication as contemplated in section 250(6) of the Act and to pass speaking order after providing a reasonable opportunity of hearing to the assessee. The assessee is also directed to remain vigilant and not to take adjournment unless otherwise required for reasonable cause. Effective grounds of appeal raised by the assessee are allowed for statistical purposes.