The HC held that an appellate authority must pass a reasoned...

The HC held that an appellate authority must pass a reasoned order dealing with the grounds raised in the appeal memo, including objections based on natural justice and the request for personal hearing. Dismissing the appeal solely because the appellant was not personally present did not discharge that duty, especially where the appeal alleged breach of Section 75(4) and prejudice from administrative lapse. The appellate order was quashed and the matter remanded for fresh decision after giving an opportunity of hearing, with a direction to consider the grounds even if the appellant again does not appear.

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