Custom Department’s action in selling gold during pendency of appeal is illegal

Leyla Mohmoodi Vs Additional Commissioner of Customs (Bombay High Court) Bombay High Court held that action of the department in selling the gold during the pendency of the appeal is illegal and unconstitutional. Facts- The petitioners are Iranian nationals. On 14.01.2018, they arrived at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai, by the Oman Air Flight. The petitioners were wearing gold ornaments (bangles) having net weight of 1028 grams. They were intercepted by the customs officials at Mumbai Airport, and the gold bangles worn by them, were seized by the customs officials. T...