Preliminary enquiry for disproportionate assets allegations is warranted when disputed facts require independent technical scrutiny.

A writ petition alleging acquisition of wealth disproportionate to known sources of income was supported by extensive documentary material, including tax returns, assessment records, charts and photographs. Because the allegations raised disputed questions about acquisition, valuation and source of funds, the SC noted that they could not be effectively resolved on the writ record and required scrutiny by an independent investigating agency with technical assistance. The political context of the allegations did not justify rejection at the threshold. A preliminary CBI enquiry was therefore directed in public interest, with further action to depend on the outcome of that enquiry.

---

---

Issues: Whether, on the allegations of acquisition of wealth disproportionate to known sources of income, a preliminary enquiry by the CBI was warranted and whether the writ petition could be rejected at the threshold.

Analysis: The allegations were supported by voluminous material including sale deeds, income-tax returns, wealth-tax returns, assessment orders, charts and photographs, while the respondents contested the factual foundation. The Court held that such disputed and detailed questions concerning acquisition, valuation and source of funds could not be effectively examined on the writ record and required scrutiny by an independent investigating agency with technical assistance. The petition was not rejected on maintainability grounds merely because the allegations were raised in a political context, and the Court found that a preliminary enquiry was necessary in public interest.

Conclusion: A preliminary enquiry by the CBI into the alleged acquisition of wealth by respondent Nos. 2 to 5 was directed.

Final Conclusion: The writ petition succeeded to the extent that the matter was sent for independent investigation, with further action to follow depending on the result of the preliminary enquiry.

Ratio Decidendi: Where a writ petition discloses a prima facie case of alleged disproportionate assets supported by material requiring technical scrutiny, the Court may direct an independent preliminary enquiry by the CBI instead of dismissing the matter at the threshold.

---