Post-clearance customs duty paid with interest: s.28(4) extended demand and s.114A penalty rejected without suppression proof

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....Invocation of s.28(4) of the Customs Act, 1962 and the consequent mandatory penalty under s.114A, despite post-clearance payment of duty with interest, was held unsustainable because the extended provision requires specific proof of collusion, wilful misstatement, or suppression. Mere payment a few days after "out of charge," particularly when system changes were pending for capturing the new duty in ICES and no advantage accrued to the importer due to interest liability, did not establish the requisite intent or conduct. Accordingly, confiscation and penalties were set aside and the appeals were allowed. - CESTAT....