CESTAT allowed the appeal by remand, setting aside the impugned...

CESTAT allowed the appeal by remand, setting aside the impugned order of the Commissioner (Appeals) and condoning a 36-day delay. The Tribunal held the limitation for filing an appeal under s.128 must be computed from communication of a speaking order by the Assessing Officer, not merely from the date of provisional assessment of the bill of entry. As the Appellant had requested a speaking order and received no response, the appeal was within time. The matter is remitted to the Commissioner (Appeals) to pass a decision conforming to s.128A(4), and to make further enquiries, if necessary under s.128A(3), and dispose of the appeal within four months.