Undue Harassment in the Garb of Public Revenue
IN a recent Judgement, the Allahabad High Court observed,
Aforesaid attitude on the part of respondents is clearly arbitrary and shows an attitude of undue harassment to petitioner in the garb of public Revenue. Interest of public revenue does not authorize Revenue Authorities to work without any authority and create or cause all kinds of harassment to innocent people on the pretext of statutory authority. Revenue Authorities cannot claim liberty/privilege so as to deprive an individual, his property and that too in a manner, which has been found quite unreasonable and wholly without jurisdiction.
Respondents are directed to release all FDRs seized during seizure and also refund the amount in question, if not already released or refunded. In case FDRs and amount in question are not returned or refunded so far, they shall be returned / refunded forthwith without any further delay alongwith interest @ 18% per annum from the date of seizure till the date of actual return / refund.
Respondents shall be at liberty to recover the said amount of interest from the official(s) concerned who is/are found responsible for such negligence and illegal act, after making enquiry as permissible under law.