M.Katju, R.S.Tripathi, JJ. - (1.) This appeal under Section 35-G of the Central Excise Act 1944 relates to the imposition of penalty on the appellant. Heard learned counsel for the parties.
(2.) The appellant is engaged in the manufacture of steel products falling under Chapter 72 of the Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985. During the period 1997 to 31.3.2000 it was paying duty under the compounded scheme as contemplated under Section 3-A of the Central Excise Act, 1944.
(3.) A perusal of the impugned order of the Tribunal dated 8.8.2003 shows that central excise duty was to be paid by the appellant in accordance with the Rule 962P of the Central Excise Rules on the 10th day of every month. The appellant paid the duty for September and October 1999 on 5.11.1999 instead of paying it in September and October. Similarly, for the months of November and December 1999, the appellant paid the duty on 6.1.2000 instead of paying it by the 10th of the respective months.;