CBIC Assigns 700 Customs Appeals for Speedy Disposal
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued a significant order to fast-track pending litigation under Customs law. A total of 700 pending appeals under the Customs Act have now been reassigned to the Commissioner (Appeals), Mumbai Zone-I, as per CBIC Order No. 07/2024 dated 28th May 2025.
This blog explains what this reassignment means, who it affects, and how it can impact ongoing customs disputes.
Why Did CBIC Reassign 700 Appeals?
- High Pendency: Hundreds of appeals were lying unresolved with Commissioners (Appeals) in various zones.
- Aim of the Order: To clear backlog and ensure faster disposal of customs appeals.
- Legal Basis: Section 128 of the Customs Act, 1962 allows such reassignment for administrative convenience.
Key Details of the CBIC Order
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Order Number | 07/2024-Customs |
| Date of Issue | 28th May 2025 |
| Issued by | CBIC, New Delhi |
| Transferred Appeals | 700 pending appeals |
| Transferred To | Commissioner (Appeals), Mumbai Zone-I |
| Jurisdiction Impacted | Various zones, reassigned to Mumbai Zone-I |
| Purpose | Expedited disposal under Section 128 of the Customs Act |
What Is Section 128 of the Customs Act?
Section 128 empowers any person aggrieved by an adjudicating authority’s decision to file an appeal to the Commissioner (Appeals). It also allows the Board to redistribute the appeal load for efficient functioning.
Who Will Be Affected by This Move?
- Importers/Exporters with appeals pending in other zones
- Customs consultants and legal professionals handling appellate matters
- Trade associations tracking delay in appeal outcomes
Expert View: Why This Matters
“This is a welcome move by CBIC. It shows a clear intent to reduce litigation time and increase administrative efficiency. Businesses will benefit from quicker resolution of disputes, leading to improved ease of doing business.”
— Senior Customs Consultant, Mumbai
Practical Impact for Businesses
- ✔️ Faster hearings and disposal expected in Mumbai Zone-I
- ⚠️ Businesses with reassigned cases should track file movements
- 📞 May require follow-up with the Commissioner (Appeals), Mumbai for updates
- 🗂️ Documentation must be in order for re-presentation, if required
What You Should Do Next
If you have a pending customs appeal:
- Contact your customs consultant or CA to track jurisdictional changes
- Prepare for faster timelines, as the Mumbai bench may schedule hearings sooner
Internal Link
Read our related blog: How to File a Customs Appeal under Section 128
External Link
Official CBIC Order: CBIC Order 07/2024 – customs.gov.in
Summary
CBIC has reassigned 700 pending customs appeals to Commissioner (Appeals), Mumbai Zone-I via Order No. 07/2024 to expedite resolution under Section 128 of the Customs Act.
FAQs
Q1. Can CBIC legally transfer appeals across zones?
Yes. Under Section 128 of the Customs Act, CBIC is empowered to reallocate appeal cases for efficient administration.
Q2. Will I receive any direct notice about this reassignment?
Normally, reassigned parties are notified or the updated listing will reflect in zonal records. You should verify with your legal advisor.
Q3. Is this order applicable to GST appeals too?
No. This order specifically pertains to appeals under the Customs Act, not GST.