ITAT: Multiple 142(1) Notices for Same Query Count as One Default – Penalty Cut to ₹10,000

Ganpat Singh Vs ITO (ITAT Indore) Five Notices, One Query: ITAT Restricts 271(1)(b) Penalty to ₹10,000- When Multiple 142(1) Notices Seek Same Info—Only One Default Survives Assessee, an agriculturist, filed appeal belatedly against penalty of ₹50,000 levied u/s 271(1)(b) for alleged non-compliance with five consecutive notices issued u/s 142(1). Delay was supported by affidavit stating prolonged illness & financial hardship. Tribunal noted the Assessee’s ailing condition & absence of mala fide, & applying the Supreme Court ruling in Collector, Land Acquisition v. Mst. Kati...