Bail in NDPS investigation granted where seizure report was incomplete and custody was no longer needed for further inquiry.

An accused in an NDPS prosecution under Section 21(c) sought bail pending investigation after cocaine was allegedly recovered. The qualitative and quantitative report of the seized substance had not been placed on record, and the remand application indicated that further custodial interrogation was no longer required. In these circumstances, the Karnataka HC found no impediment to enlarging the petitioner on bail, subject to execution of bond and compliance with the stated conditions.

---

---

Issues: Whether the petitioner, an accused in an offence under Section 21(c) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, was entitled to bail pending investigation.

Analysis: The seizure was of cocaine allegedly recovered from the accused, but the qualitative and quantitative report of the seized substance had not been placed on record. The remand application indicated that the petitioner was no longer required in custody for the purpose of further investigation. In these circumstances, the Court found no impediment to enlarging the petitioner on bail.

Conclusion: The petitioner was entitled to bail, subject to execution of bond and compliance with the specified conditions.

---