Penalty u/s 271(1)(c) invalid when notice fails to specify charge and irrelevant limb not struck off: ITAT

The article discusses an ITAT ruling that invalidated a penalty under Section 271(1)(c) due to a defective notice. The AO had failed to strike off the irrelevant portion, creating ambiguity about the specific charge — concealment of income or furnishing inaccurate particulars. The Tribunal reiterated that a vague notice violates principles of natural justice. The decision is important for procedural grounds on which tax penalties can be challenged.