Orissa High Court issues guidelines to ensure seized property is not retained indefinitely

The Orissa High Court has unveiled comprehensive guidelines for the management of seized property by courts and investigative authorities across the state. These efforts seek to prevent the indefinite retention of confiscated items without valid legal justification, aiming to enhance the efficiency of the justice system for societal benefit.

Proactive Asset Management Encouraged

The courts are henceforth advised to avoid unnecessarily long detentions of seized items unless there are justified reasons. They are also urged to expedite decisions regarding the return or disposal of these assets. Investigative officers are required to provide regular reports and seek the court's guidance on the proper management of such assets.

Regular Reviews and Compliance Checks

To further streamline asset management, Justice Sibo Shankar Mishra proposed periodic reviews and compliance assessments to prevent backlogs or mishandling. In line with these new directives, the Orissa High Court's decision has been communicated to magistrates, police officials, and relevant government departments.

The new guidelines cover a broad range of seized items, including cash, bank and fixed deposits, vehicles, valuables, firearms, electronic gadgets, and even perishable goods, ensuring efficient management of each category.

GUIDELINES

1.    Release of seized cash upon fulfillment of appropriate conditions or imposition of security bonds
2.    Bank deposits/FDs may be released against varied amounts of property securities or bank guarantee
3.    Precious items should be stored in proper lockers under court supervision
4.    Seized vehicles, liquor, narcotics, electronic goods, perishable goods, etc. should be kept in a secure facility to prevent damage
5.    Items no longer required for investigation or trial should be returned to owner
6.    Time-bound review mechanism to prevent unnecessary accumulation of seized goods