In Brief
This case concerns the validity of detention orders issued in 1994 under the Conservation of Foreign Exchange and Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act (COFEPOSA). The appellants challenged their detention as confirmed valid by the High Court. The Supreme Court held that while the Advisory Board had opined favourably on detention, the State failed to produce any formal confirmation order from the Central Government as mandated by Section 8(f) of COFEPOSA. Without such confirmation within three months of detention, the detention became void and illegal under Article 22(4) of the Constitution. The Court allowed the appeals, set aside the High Court's order, and directed reconsideration of consequential forfeiture proceedings.
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