No takers of crores of rupees kept at ‘malkhana’ of police stations
Patna,(BiharTimes): After the demonetization of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes there are no takers of crores of rupees kept at the ‘malkhana’ of various police stations all over Bihar.
According to a Times of India report, which quoted police sources, huge amounts of cash seized in various raids over the past few years have remained untouched at various police stations.
“After registration of case, the seized currency becomes property of the court. Hence, the money cannot be exchanged without the permission of the courts concerned. Since most of the cases are at trial stage, there has been no claimant for these deposits,” an officer was quoted in the daily.
Since the currency notes are mostly in Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 denominations, police officers are confused what would they do if the courts acquit the accused and ask them to hand over the seized cash to them after December 31.
“We have no idea how much money is gathering dust at police stations,” said a senior police officer, adding that after demonetisation, Patna DSP (Law and Oorder) Shibli Nomani had asked the SHOs of five police stations under his jurisdiction to submit a report on the seized currency lying in the ‘malkhanas’. He had also asked the SHOs to seek courts’ opinion.
Another senior DSP rank official said every police station has a bank account and if the courts permit, the seized cash can be deposited in these accounts and new currency issued later. "If the seized currency is not exchanged, it would lead to legal problem in the future," he added.
However, it is not yet clear what the police would do with the money seized by the vigilance department. “We are seeking legal opinion from experts. Only courts can enlighten us on this,” said Paras Nath, IG (Headquarters and Legal Matters).
