Appellants granted right to cross-examine witnesses in excise duty cases, CESTAT remands for fresh decision.

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....The Customs, Excise and Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT) set aside the impugned order and remanded the cases back to the adjudicating authority. The appellants were granted the opportunity for cross-examination of material witnesses relied upon by the revenue authorities. This was based on the principle of natural justice, following precedents that denial of cross-examination violates fair procedure u/s 9D of the Central Excise Act. The adjudicating authority must allow cross-examination and follow due process for a fresh decision. The appellants were directed to cooperate for speedy disposal.....