74. Rectification of mistake

(1) With a view to rectifying any mistake apparent from the record, the Central Excise Officer who passed any order under the provisions of this Chapter may, within two years of the date on which such order was passed, amend the order.

(2) Where any matter has been considered and decided in any proceeding by way of appeal or revision relating to an order referred to in subsection (1), the Central Excise Officer passing such order may, notwithstanding anything contained in any law for the time being in force, amend the order under that sub-section in relation to any matter other than the matter which has been so considered and decided.

(3) Subject to the other provisions of this section, the Central Excise Officer concerned 

(a) may make an amendment under sub-section (1) of his own motion; or

(b) shall make such amendment if any mistake is brought to his notice by the assessee or the Commissioner of Central Excise or the Commissioner of Central Excise (Appeals).

(4) An amendment, which has the effect of enhancing 4[the liability of the assessee or reducing a refund , shall not be made under this section unless the Central Excise Officer concerned has given notice to the assessee of his intention so to do and has allowed the assessee a reasonable opportunity of being heard.

(5) Where an amendment is made under this section, an order shall be passed in writing by the Central Excise Officer concerned.

(6) Subject to the other provisions of this Chapter where any such amendment has the effect of reducing the liability of the assessee or increasing the refund, the Central Excise Officer shall make any refund which may be due to such assessee.

(7) Where any such amendment has the effect of enhancing the liability of the assessee or reducing the refund already made, the Central  Excise Officer shall make an order specifying the sum payable by the assessee and the provisions of this Chapter shall apply accordingly.