In a bid to curb the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has directed its field offices to conduct hearings in customs, excise and service tax appeal cases via video conference with the consent of the appellant or respondent.

"While ensuring compliance with guidelines and instructions issued by the government and public health authorities, the Board has decided that personal hearing for any proceeding under Customs Act, 1962, given by authorities such as Commissioner (Appeals), Original adjudicating authorities and Compounding authority, may be conducted through video conferencing", said a CBIC circular dated April 27th.

"This would also facilitate importers, exporters, passengers, advocates, tax practitioners and authorized representatives to maintain social distancing while performing their work at ease, from a place of their choice", added CBIC.

So far, COVID-19 cases in India have surpassed the 29,000 mark, indicating the importance of social distancing norms.