Ex parte adjudication and consequent GST registration...

Ex parte adjudication and consequent GST registration cancellation were challenged as violating principles of natural justice, since the assessee alleged absence of pre-intimation, inadequate opportunity to respond to Form DRC-01 show-cause notice, and denial of personal hearing. Accepting that the non-response was due to bona fide and unavoidable circumstances constituting sufficient cause, the court adopted a justice-oriented approach and held that the adjudication required reconsideration after affording a fair opportunity to file a reply and contest the proceedings. The impugned order was set aside and the matter remitted to the proper officer for fresh decision from the reply stage, with the petition allowed. - HC