Renowned actor Dulquer Salmaan has taken a stand, petitioning the Kerala High Court on Friday to challenge the Customs department’s seizure of his luxury SUV. The department had confiscated the vehicle, alleging tax evasion, and Salmaan is now pushing for its immediate release.
The Land Rover Defender was impounded from his Kochi residence in Elamkulam as part of ‘Operation Numkhor,’ a wide-ranging investigation targeting public figures accused of acquiring high-end used cars and SUVs from Bhutan using falsified documents.
In his petition, Salmaan asserted his rightful ownership of the seized vehicle, explaining that he bought it as a collector’s item due to his strong passion for such automobiles. He argued that the seizure was arbitrary and based purely on suspicion, noting that he has been using the 2004 model car for five years without any prior issues or complaints.
Furthermore, Salmaan highlighted a critical concern: the Customs department lacks adequate facilities to safely maintain seized vehicles. He warned that by the time legal proceedings conclude, such vehicles could be rendered irreparable, losing both their practical use and significant value. He firmly believes that allowing the car to deteriorate in official custody serves no public interest.
The actor requested a court order for the vehicle’s release, guaranteeing that its ownership and possession would remain with him. He also assured the court that the car, originally purchased from the Indian Red Cross, would be made available to the authorities whenever required.
In response, the High Court has now requested the Customs department to present its perspective on the matter.