In a bid to modernize judicial efficiency and prevent prolonged detainment of confiscated assets, the Orissa High Court has issued comprehensive guidelines for courts and investigative agencies across the state.
The move seeks to balance legal necessity with property rights and streamline asset handling during legal proceedings.
Key Objectives:
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Avoid indefinite retention of seized items without legal justification
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Expedite decisions on return or disposal of assets
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Ensure transparency and judicial oversight in asset management
Highlights of the Guidelines:
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Seized Cash:
To be released promptly upon fulfillment of legal conditions or through security bonds. -
Bank Deposits & FDs:
May be returned against appropriate property security or bank guarantees. -
Precious Items:
To be safely stored in designated court-supervised lockers. -
Vehicles, Liquor, Narcotics, Electronics, Perishables:
Must be kept in secure storage to prevent deterioration or misuse. -
Items No Longer Required for Trial:
Should be returned to the rightful owner without delay. -
Time-Bound Review Mechanism:
Regular compliance checks to prevent backlogs or mismanagement of evidence.
Implementation & Oversight:
Justice Sibo Shankar Mishra, spearheading the initiative, has emphasized periodic reviews and compliance monitoring to ensure adherence. The directive has been communicated to magistrates, police departments, and state agencies for immediate enforcement.
This progressive step is expected to improve trust in judicial efficiency, reduce litigation clutter, and prevent damage or depreciation of valuable public and private assets.
