2012 (10) TMI 543 - AT - Central Excise

Tribunal rules in favor of appellant, highlighting distinction in manufacturing activities.

TRF LTD. Versus COMMISSIONER OF C. EX., JAMSHEDPUR

TRF LTD. Versus COMMISSIONER OF C. EX., JAMSHEDPUR - 2012 (277) E.L.T. 349 (Tri. - Kolkata) Issues:1. Whether the appellant's activities amount to manufacturing spare partsRs.2. Whether affixing the logo indicates manufacturing by the appellantRs.3. Whether the Commissioner's conclusion on manufacturing is validRs.4. Whether the appellant's actions align with legal precedents on manufacturing spare partsRs.Analysis:1. The issue revolves around whether the appellant's actions of procuring spare parts not manufactured by them and supplying them as genuine spare parts constitute manufacturing. The Revenue contends that the appellant clears bought-out spare parts as if they were manufactured by them, leading to duty demands. The appellant argues that they did not keep separate accounts for bought-out items, and the Commissioner's conclusion lacks substantial evidence beyond the show cause notice.2. Concerning the logo affixed on the spare parts, the appellant asserts that it only states 'TRF genuine spare parts' without indicating manufacturing by TRF. The Commissioner's failure to consider a DGMS letter approving specific manufacturers for certain spare parts, which the appellant could not manufacture, supports the appellant's case and challenges the Commissioner's findings on the logo.3. The Commissioner concluded that the appellant's activities amount to manufacturing spare parts, triggering duty demands. However, the Tribunal's decision in previous cases such as S & S Industries and Enterprises Ltd. and Crystal Sanitary Fittings Pvt. Ltd. establishes that mere assembly, testing, labeling, or affixing a brand name or logo may not necessarily constitute manufacturing. The appellant's lack of necessary infrastructure for manufacturing bought-out spare parts further weakens the Commissioner's stance.4. Considering the legal precedents and the specific circumstances of the case, the Tribunal finds that the appellant's actions do not amount to manufacturing spare parts. Therefore, the appeal is allowed on its merits alone, and the question of imposing penalties under extended time-limits does not arise. The Tribunal's decision is based on the lack of substantial evidence supporting the Commissioner's conclusion and the alignment of the case with established legal principles regarding manufacturing spare parts.In conclusion, the Tribunal rules in favor of the appellant, allowing the appeal and stay petitions based on the lack of evidence supporting the Commissioner's stance that the appellant's activities constitute manufacturing spare parts. The judgment highlights the importance of considering legal precedents and substantial evidence in determining manufacturing activities in such cases.