Redemption of confiscated gold ornaments denied after prolonged delay, with Customs sale upheld and no right to sale proceeds.

Redemption of confiscated gold ornaments was not enforced because the petitioner failed to exercise the redemption option within the stipulated period or within a reasonable time thereafter, with delay extending over nearly two decades. Once the goods had vested absolutely in the Union Government, Customs was justified in selling them, and no fault attached to the sale. The absence of a prior hearing before disposal did not advance the petitioner's claim. The petitioner was therefore not entitled to return of the ornaments or to the sale proceeds with interest.

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Issues: Whether the petitioner was entitled to return of the confiscated gold ornaments or, alternatively, the sale proceeds with interest, despite failing to exercise the option of redemption for a prolonged period and after the goods had been sold by the Customs authorities.

Analysis: The option of redemption had been granted to the petitioner under the confiscation order, but he did not avail it within the stipulated period or within a reasonable time thereafter. The delay extended over nearly two decades, and the petitioner himself acknowledged the delay in making payment. Once the confiscated gold stood vested absolutely in the Union Government, the authorities were justified in selling the goods. In that situation, no fault could be found with the sale, and the complaint of want of prior hearing before disposal did not assist the petitioner.

Conclusion: The petitioner was not entitled to return of the gold ornaments or to the sale proceeds with interest; the challenge failed.

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