HC found systemic administrative deficiencies in tax proceedings...

HC found systemic administrative deficiencies in tax proceedings where petitioner's adjournment request was not properly recorded due to software synchronization issues. The court identified twin factors of portal technical errors and human negligence. Recognizing the constitutional mandate of tax collection, HC directed mandatory involvement of CIT(Judicial) as a nodal officer in future tax petitions. The court quashed penalty and demand orders dated 21.12.2021 that were passed despite existing stay orders, emphasizing the need for a just and humane tax administration system that balances departmental responsibilities with assessee rights.

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