P&H: Dismisses appeal for refund of unused stamp papers after an unexplained delay of 2 years, says Section 50 limitation is mandatory

(i) Indian Stamp Act, 1899, Ss.49 and 50 — Refund of stamp duty — Distinction between the two provisions — Section 49 operates where stamp papers are inadvertently spoiled, damaged or rendered useless before being utilized in a transaction, while Section 50 applies where stamp...

(ii) Indian Stamp Act, 1899, S.50(2) — Refund of unused stamp papers — Limitation — Application for refund must be made within six months from the date of purchase — The appellant’s application was made far beyond the prescribed period and was therefore time barred....

(iii) Indian Stamp Act, 1899, S.50 — Limitation — Application for refund of unused stamp paper after an unexplained delay of more than 2 years — Limitation prescribed u/s.50 is mandatory and has to be strictly construed — Object of provision is to ensure finality...