On Tuesday, the Kerala High Court directed popular actor Dulquer Salmaan to formally petition the adjudicating authority under the Customs Act for the return of his luxurious SUV. The vehicle had been impounded by the Customs department more than a week prior, following allegations of tax evasion.
Salmaan’s Land Rover Defender was confiscated from his Kochi home during ‘Operation Numkhor.’ This special operation targets public figures suspected of buying expensive, pre-owned cars and SUVs from Bhutan using fraudulent paperwork, aiming to circumvent customs regulations.
In response, Mr. Salmaan filed a plea with the High Court, asserting that the seizure was arbitrary and lacked substantial grounds, being based purely on suspicion. He argued that he had owned and used the 2004 model vehicle for half a decade without any prior issues or complaints. Furthermore, he emphasized that all financial transactions for the vehicle were conducted through legitimate banking channels.
The actor also highlighted concerns about the Customs department’s capacity to safely store such impounded vehicles. He pointed out that by the time lengthy legal proceedings conclude, seized vehicles often become dilapidated, lose their practical value, and suffer significant depreciation, making their eventual return almost meaningless.
During Tuesday’s hearing, a bench led by Justice Ziyad Rahman A.A. acknowledged the Customs department’s argument that the investigation remains in its preliminary phase. The court stated it would be inappropriate to intervene at this stage to determine the necessity of the ongoing probe. The bench further clarified that Section 110A of the Customs Act provides a clear mechanism for individuals whose goods have been seized to seek their provisional release while awaiting final adjudication.
Therefore, the court advised Mr. Salmaan to present his case directly to the Additional Commissioner of Customs, who serves as the designated adjudicating authority in such matters.