KAILASH CHAND GUPTA Vs. STATE

JUDGEMENT

(1.) I have heard the partics. In this case, the contraband gold weighing about two kilos was seized by the Customs authorities on 2.3.1977 and the complaint after investigation was filed almost five years later on 29.3.1982. First Public Witness . on pre-charge evidence was examined in July, 1982 and thereafter second Public Witness . was examined only in April, 1987. It is more than fifteen years now since the complaint was filed and the mailer is still.at a stage of pre-charge evidence. In this very case, departmental adjudication was undertaken and not only the adjudication was concluded, but even. appeal against the original order stood disposed of on 23.7.1983. The concluding para of the appellate order may be relevant for consideration of the present case. It is repro- duced hereunder:-