Foreign travel restrictions and Look Out Circular suspension upheld where investigation remained pending without a charge sheet

The restriction on foreign travel was found unjustified where the investigation had remained pending for a substantial period without a charge sheet, the respondent had cooperated when summoned and disclosed required information, and an undertaking secured prompt return if presence was required. In the absence of any definite completion timeline for the investigation, the Delhi HC upheld the order suspending the Look Out Circular and permitting travel abroad, and found no ground for interference.

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Issues: Whether the order suspending the Look Out Circular and permitting the respondent to travel abroad called for interference.

Analysis: The investigation had been pending for a substantial period and no charge sheet had been filed. The respondent had participated in the investigation when summoned and had disclosed the required information. An undertaking had been given that he would return within five days of intimation if his presence was required, and no definite time-frame for completion of the investigation had been shown. In these circumstances, the restriction on foreign travel was not justified.

Conclusion: The order granting permission to travel abroad and suspending the Look Out Circular was upheld and no interference was warranted.

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