Violation of natural justice arises where the notice for...

Violation of natural justice arises where the notice for adjudication does not specify date, time and venue for personal hearing; administrative practice must therefore provide such intimation before a final order is passed, although a fresh show cause notice is not required. Administrative orders must be reasoned; absence of the taxpayer from proceedings does not relieve the tax officer of the duty to furnish a reasoned order after considering available materials. On these grounds the High Court quashed the impugned adjudication and allowed the writ petition.