Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai
Mumbai, Mar 28: A Sessions Court has rejected the plea filed by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seeking cancellation of bail granted to businessman Falgun Yogendra Shroff in the alleged ?30 crore imported furniture scam.
The case dates back to August last year, when Shroff was arrested for allegedly importing high-end Italian luxury furniture by undervaluing goods and evading customs duties. The DRI had challenged the earlier bail order passed by the Esplanade Court, arguing that the offence was serious and required custodial interrogation in light of new developments.
The agency also claimed that the accused had not fully cooperated with the investigation and had withheld key documents, including original invoices and login credentials related to the alleged scheme.
However, the defence, represented by advocate Sujay Kantawala, opposed the plea, stating that the accusations were unfounded. The defence argued that Shroff had complied with all bail conditions, appeared before authorities whenever summoned, and provided necessary documents and access to email accounts. It also highlighted that he had been permitted to travel abroad on multiple occasions and had returned as directed by the court.
After hearing both sides, the court observed that cancellation of bail requires strong and compelling circumstances, which were not evident in this case. Referring to Supreme Court rulings such as Daulat Ram vs State of Haryana and Dipak Yadav vs State of Uttar Pradesh, the court noted that bail once granted should not be revoked routinely unless there is clear misuse of liberty.
The court found no evidence that the accused had violated bail conditions, attempted to abscond, or interfered with the investigation. It also pointed out that if the prosecution was dissatisfied with the original bail order, it should have challenged it earlier before an appropriate forum.
Observing no “supervening circumstances” to justify cancellation, the Sessions Court dismissed the DRI’s application, while allowing the agency to seek appropriate relief before the trial court as per law.