EXPERIS IT PRIVATE LIMITED ,KOLKATA vs. D.C.I.T.,CIRCLE-2(1), KOLKATA

None appeared on behalf of the assessee. There is no petition for adjournment either. Under these circumstances, we dispose off the case ex-parte on merits qua the assessee after hearing the ld. Departmental Representative.

Heard the ld. D/R. On perusing the order passed by the ld. CIT(A), we find that the assessee has not appeared before the ld. CIT(A) and hence an ex-parte order was passed dismissing the appeal of the assessee. We find that the ld. CIT(A) has not disposed off the case on merits. This is not permissible in law. Hence, we deem it fit to restore the issue to the file of the ld. CIT(A), for fresh adjudication, in accordance with law, after giving the assessee adequate opportunity of being heard, on the grounds of violations of the principles of natural justice.

Before parting, it is noted that the order is being pronounced after ninety (90) days of hearing. However, taking note of the extraordinary situation in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown, the period of lockdown days need to be excluded. For coming to such a conclusion, I rely upon the decision of the Co-ordinate Bench of the Mumbai Tribunal in the case of DCIT vs. JSW Limited in & 6103/Mum/2018, Assessment Year 2013-14, order dt. 14th May, 2020.

Assessment Year: 2013-14 Experis IT Private Limited 5. In the result, appeal of In the result, appeal of assessee is allowed for statistical purposes. assessee is allowed for statistical purposes.