- (1.) The Respondents herein are engaged in the manufacture of processed, preserved and frozen fish, prawns and various kinds of breaded fish pellets and other foods preparation of meat and vegetables. Food preparation of meat and vegetables include chicken patty, breaded fish finger etc. which fall under Central Excise Tariff Heading No. 1601.10 and 2001.10 of the schedule to Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985. The said product was marketed in individual unit container under the brand name 'SUMERU'. Department's case is that the items in question are chargeable to duty under Chapter 16 of the Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985.
(2.) On the basis of the intelligence that the Respondent herein had indulged in evasion of Central Excise duty by manufacturing and clearing excisable goods without payment of duty, the officers Signature Not Verified searched the manufacturing premises of the Respondent on 24.06.2003 and seized certain documents. Four representative samples from each seven varieties of fish, prawns, and other prepared food items packed in polythene pouches with brand name 'SUMERU' were drawn from the factory. Expert Inspection Agency vide its test report dated 08.09.2003 had confirmed the presence of ploy phosphate in all seven varieties. Customs House vide its report dated 25.09.2003 also confirmed the presence of phosphate and chloride in all the samples.
(3.) Accordingly, show cause notice dated 09.07.2004 was issued to the Respondents which was confirmed by the Commissioner vide its order dated 31.08.2005 and held that goods under the Brand name 'SUMERU' shall be classifiable under Tariff Sub -Heading 1601.10 and confirmed the demand of Rs. 42,30,909/ -.;