Customs Rummaging - Cash-ual?
REFERENCES have been received in the Board alleging lackadaisical approach of Customs officers in rummaging and examination of vessels which come to berth at various Indian ports. The references also allege illegal gratification in the form of gifts and cash. A Standing Order issued by Chennai Customs states, "citing international formalities/convention, in certain cases the Master of the Vessel/Shipping Agent may offer gifts to the Boarding Officer. The boarding Officer should refuse the gift politely and firmly." - very difficult indeed!
Board refers to the guidelines prescribed in Customs Preventive Manual, 1987 regarding boarding and rummaging of vessels. Over the years many changes have taken place in the sphere of Customs administration in the background of changed economic scenario and increasing volume of trade. There has been a manifold increase in the number and movement of vessels and aircrafts. This has been accompanied by a more transparent and accountable work environment based on information technology which aims to better channelize scarce resources through risk management and at the same time endeavours to reduce transaction costs and promotes ease of doing business.
CBEC further states:
Rummaging of vessels berthing at the ports/aircrafts landing at airports/vehicles crossing land customs stations is an effective method to prevent any attempt to smuggle prohibited and restricted goods into the country and hence supervisory officers need to pay adequate attention to this important preventive function. With an enhanced fleet of vessels and aircrafts to be dealt with limited human resources, rummaging exercises will prove to be effective when they are carried on sound risk management principles. While the prevailing rummaging practices need not be diluted, a full detailed rummage should be carried out on vessels/aircrafts/vehicles where risk analysis, reliable information etc. suggests the necessity for such. This will also help in reducing harassment, alleged complaints and enhance ease of doing business.
Though the new initiatives are required to be undertaken at each Customs location, the guidelines prescribed in the Customs Preventive Manual, 1987 regarding rummaging which inter alia include the nature of goods, the areas to be searched, precautions for safeguarding the officers and the vessels/aircrafts/vehicles, official supervision, professional approach to minimise annoyance and loss, etc. will continue to be in force.