2023 (11) TMI 624 - HC - Customs

Antidumping duty continuation requires fresh imposition under Section 9A(5) before five-year notification period expires

M/s. Sarla Performance Fibres Ltd. Versus Union of India, through the Secretary, Ministry of Finance & Ors.

M/s. Sarla Performance Fibres Ltd. Versus Union of India, through the Secretary, Ministry of Finance & Ors. - TMI Issues involved: The legality of impugned notifications dated 13 January, 2012 and 19 January, 2017 imposing antidumping duty on Nylon Filament yarn under Section 9A(5) of the Customs Tariff Act, 1975.Judgment Summary:Issue 1: Legality of Impugned Notifications The petitioner challenged the notifications imposing antidumping duty on Nylon Filament yarn, arguing that such amendments cannot be made after the primary notification has lapsed. Citing precedents like Union of India vs. M/s. Kumho Petrochemicals Co. Ltd., it was contended that amendments to non-existing notifications are impermissible. The Supreme Court emphasized that amendments should not be carried out during the lifetime of the original notification. The High Court concurred, stating that the amendment of a lapsed notification is legally untenable. However, the Court declined to order a refund of the duty paid post-amendment, citing the doctrine of unjust enrichment.Issue 2: Applicability of Unjust Enrichment Regarding the refund of antidumping duty paid after a certain date, the Court noted conflicting views on the applicability of the doctrine of unjust enrichment. While the petitioner sought a refund based on previous judgments, the Court upheld the decision of a prior case which required compliance with the law for any refund. The Court directed the respondent to grant a refund if entitled, subject to legal requirements.Issue 3: Binding Precedents The Court emphasized that decisions of the Supreme Court under Article 141 of the Constitution are binding on all courts, including the High Court and the Tribunal. It was stated that the principles of law established by the Supreme Court must be followed by all courts in the country. The petitioner was advised to present all contentions before the Tribunal, including the entitlement to a refund based on the Supreme Court's legal principles.In conclusion, the petition was disposed of with liberty granted to the petitioner to raise contentions before the Tribunal and seek early disposal of the pending appeal, with no costs imposed.