In Brief
The Supreme Court dismissed appeals by NGO activists and trusts challenging the freezing of their bank accounts by investigating officers during a criminal investigation into allegations of misappropriation of funds meant for 2002 Gujarat riot victims. The Court held that Section 102 of the Code of Criminal Procedure empowers police to seize bank accounts if circumstances create suspicion of commission of any offence. No prior notice to account holders is required. The Court found sufficient material creating suspicion and affirmed that investigation was ongoing, rejecting the plea for de-freezing. The appellants were directed to cooperate with investigation and permitted to seek de-freezing after investigation completion if circumstances warranted it.
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