No SCN, No Detention: Delhi HC Frees Gold Seized at IGI Airport

Kurban Vs Commissioner of Customs & Ors (Delhi High Court) Delhi High Court has directed the unconditional release of three gold bars seized from a passenger at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, Delhi, citing the Customs Authorities’ failure to issue a Show Cause Notice (SCN) since the seizure on December 26, 2021. The ruling, delivered on July 31, 2025, emphasizes that prolonged detention without formal notice is not permissible. The petitioner, Kurban, a resident of Saudi Arabia, had arrived from Saudi Arabia when the gold bars were seized. He stated that the gold was purc...