In Brief
The State of Karnataka challenged a High Court order quashing criminal proceedings against M. Basappa Reddy, then Director of Mines and Geology, who allegedly conspired to fraudulently expand a mining lease area to include unauthorized territory rich in iron ore. The FIR alleged acts of commission and omission. Reddy's defence was that his role was merely to make recommendations for government consideration. The Supreme Court held that at the preliminary Section 482 stage, the court must assess allegations on their face value without evaluating defence arguments. Since the FIR clearly alleged specific wrongful acts, the High Court was not justified in quashing proceedings. The appeal was allowed and police were directed to proceed with investigation."
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