Whether the impugned purchases constituted a benami transaction...

Whether the impugned purchases constituted a benami transaction under s.2(9)(A) of the 1988 Act was determined against the appellant, as the sale deeds and contemporaneous documents showed the requisite arrangement between the ostensible owner and the beneficial owner, and bank statements established that consideration was paid directly by the appellant; consequently, the benami finding and related orders were upheld. Denial of cross-examination was rejected because such right is not automatic and the conclusion rested substantially on documentary evidence; hence no prejudice was shown. The challenge to attachment for want of notice under s.26(5) was rejected on a plain reading of the provision; attachment was sustained and the appeals were dismissed. - AT