CESTAT held that the imported gold pendants are classifiable...

CESTAT held that the imported gold pendants are classifiable under CTH 7113 1910, as declared by the appellant, and not under CTH 7108 1300 as held by the lower authorities. Relying on HC precedent, the Tribunal ruled that DGFT Notifications dated 24.08.2019 and 18.12.2019, and subsequent Notification No. 22/2021 expanding the restriction, could not be applied retrospectively, as the goods were freely importable on the date of import. The pendants, being wearable jewellery of 99.99% purity, were not prohibited goods. Consequently, the demand, confiscation and penalties were held unsustainable and the Commissioner's order was set aside, allowing the appeal.

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