K.KANAGARAJ Vs. REVENUE DIVISIONAL OFFICER

JUDGEMENT

(1.) (This petition was heard through video conference) This writ petition has been filed for a Mandamus seeking for a direction to the respondents to release the petitioner's vehicle namely TATA BENZ HALF BODY LORRY bearing registration No.TN-22-C-4545, forthwith.

(2.) Mr.C.Ramesh, learned Special Government Pleader, accepts notice for the respondents. By consent of both parties, the Writ Petition is taken up for final disposal at the admission stage itself.

(3.) It is the case of the petitioner that he is the owner of the vehicle namely TATA BENZ HALF BODY LORRY bearing registration No.TN-22-C-4545. According to him, on 16.08.2017, third respondent seized the vehicle and registered a case in Crime No.277 of 2017 for the offence punishable under Section 379 of IPC and Section 21(1) of Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulations) Act, 1957, alleging that the petitioner has illegally transported sand in his vehicle. According to him, ever since the seizure, the vehicle is still in the custody of the third respondent Police and till date, no confiscation proceedings have been initiated against the seized vehicle.