Question : PENDING CASES OF CENTRAL EXCISE

(a) whether 1,02,582 cases involving Rs.19835.19 crore of Central Excise Duty were pending finalisation with different authorities as on March 31,2000;

(b) if so, the consequential figures for the fiscal year 2000-01;

(c) the reasons therefor; and

(d) the steps being taken to clear such heavy backlog?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE ( SHRI GINGEE N. RAMACHANDRAN)

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) Cases pending as on 31.3.2001:

Number	Amount (Rs. in crores)
Adjudication	74,357	18,265.99
Arrears of	94,708	8,354.09	Revenue