NAFLA RAUFF Vs. COMMISSIONER OF CUSTOMS

JUDGEMENT

(1.) I have heard the learned Counsel for the parties. The respondents are not in a position to point out any statutory provision under which they are authorized to retain the passport of the petitioner. In fact, in the affidavit filed on behalf of the respondents, they have stated that the petitioner herself has deposited the passport with the respondents.

(2.) LEARNED Counsel for the petitioner has opposed the said statement by contending that passports have been forcibly taken by the respondent authorities from the petitioner. Therefore, I direct the respondents to return the passport to the petitioner forthwith subject to the result of the writ petition.