Disposing Detained Gold Without Notice is Illegal: Delhi HC Orders Customs to Pay Market Value & Delay Costs

Gor Sharian Vs Commissioner of Customs (Delhi High Court) Delhi High Court strongly criticized the Customs Department for its handling of a case involving seized gold. The petitioner, a Russian citizen, had gold detained at IGI Airport. While the petitioner won an appeal for the gold’s release upon payment of a redemption fine and penalty, the Customs Department disposed of the gold without informing the petitioner or the court. The court had even earlier directed the release of the gold, unaware it had already been sold. The Customs Department then attempted to refund a fraction of the ...