S.B.SINHA, J. - (1.) THE contours of natural justice is in question in this writ application. Before adverting to the said question, the fact of the matter may be noticed in brief.
(2.) A vehicle was seized by the Customs Department. Occupier of the said vehicle, upon interrogation named the petitioner who is the Superintendent of Central Excise and Customs as one of the persons responsible for alleged violation of the provisions of the Customs Act and alleged illegal use of the said vehicle. A notice dated 28.6.1994 under Section 124 of the Customs Act was served upon the concerned persons including the petitioner which is contained in Annexure 'A' to the writ petition. The said notice also contained statements of fact. It was categorically stated therein: - - 'The written reply in this show -cause notice should be submitted within 30 (thirty) days from the date of its issue to the Additional Collector Customs (Prev.), West Bengal, Calcutta, M.S. Building, 5th Floor, Customs House, 15/1, Strand Road, Calcutta - 700 001. If they so desire, they may on any working day during the next 30 days inspect and make copies of statements and documents cited in this notice relevant to this case either personally or through their accredited person by prior appointment. Their written reply should be accompanied by documentary evidence, if any, in support of the same.' The petitioner neither filed his show -cause within the aforementioned period nor took any steps to inspect the documents.
(3.) THE petitioner, however, by a letter dated 16.5.1995 prayed as follows: In the premises, the Id. Additional Collector may be graciously pleased to accord necessary permission and be also further pleased for making necessary arrangement for cross -examination of the aforesaid persons including the Departmental Officers for the sake of meeting the ends of justice and fair paly.;