There is hope - Matter referred to Larger Bench
THE last evil that came out of the Pandora's Box was HOPE - Yes, hope is also an evil, perhaps the worst of all evils - it didn't even have the energy or will to fly out like the other evils when the box was opened.
It is understood that the Delhi Bench again headed by the President has referred the matter to a Larger Bench, not because of conflict with Bangalore Bench, but because certain issues were not considered by the Delhi Bench in the two recent decisions dismissing extension of stay applications.
It is learnt that Revenue has serious objections to the issue being referred to the Larger Bench and it is considering all options including approaching the High Court against the reference and it is sure to put up a strong fight if the Larger Bench is constituted. Revenue may even bring in the Additional Solicitor General to argue its case.
Now that the issue is referred to a Larger Bench, till the decision of the Larger Bench comes, will extension of stay be continued? Well, this the question that would be haunting the assessees for some time.