SC Tells Courts to Return Seized Vehicles to Owners Without Delay
What Happened
The Supreme Court has directed lower courts to promptly hand over seized vehicles to their owners on interim custody, instead of allowing them to remain parked for years at police stations. The court said such vehicles deteriorate over time, occupy valuable public space and often lose parts. It also ordered that photographs and videos of seized vehicles be preserved as evidence for trial purposes.
Key Takeaways
The ruling could bring relief to thousands of vehicle owners whose cars, bikes and commercial vehicles remain stranded in police custody for long periods. The court emphasized that preserving digital evidence is often sufficient and that courts should act swiftly on applications seeking interim custody.