https://www.taxtmi.com/caselaws?id=769678 An administrative fraud classification under the RBI Master Directions and a criminal investigation operate on distinct legal planes: the former is an administrative decision with civil and penal consequences, while an FIR depends on the existence of a cognizable offence. A defect in the administrative fraud process, including breach of audi alteram partem, does not by itself nullify the FIR or ongoing criminal proceedings, and no pre-FIR hearing is required. Setting aside the administrative order for want of natural justice invalidates only that classification and does not bar fresh administrative action taken in accordance with law. The criminal proceedings were therefore restored, with remand for fresh consideration where necessary. en-us Fri, 25 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0530 Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:17:00 +0530 TaxTMI RSS Generator https://www.taxtmi.com/caselaws?id=769678 An administrative fraud classification under the RBI Master Directions and a criminal investigation operate on distinct legal planes: the former is an administrative decision with civil and penal consequences, while an FIR depends on the existence of a cognizable offence. A defect in the administrative fraud process, including breach of audi alteram partem, does not by itself nullify the FIR or ongoing criminal proceedings, and no pre-FIR hearing is required. Setting aside the administrative order for want of natural justice invalidates only that classification and does not bar fresh administrative action taken in accordance with law. The criminal proceedings were therefore restored, with remand for fresh consideration where necessary. Case-Laws Indian Laws Fri, 25 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0530 https://www.taxtmi.com/caselaws?id=769678