JUDGMENT
A.K. Srivastava, J.
1. This is a petition for bail on behalf of C. B. Sharma, a non-resident Indian, allegedly involved for offences under Sections 132 and 135 of the Customs Act.
Heard.
2. Nine watches alleged to be studded with diamonds are said to have been recovered from the petitioner on 30th November, 1994, while he landed in India from Hongkong. The assertion of the petitioner is that the watches are designer and artistic having artificial diamond. He has purchase receipts with him to prove the same. The Customs authorities have not yet assessed their value though more than eight months have passed. The petitioner was also detained under COFEPOSA but the Advisory Board by its opinion dated 15.5.1995 did not approve the detention.
3. Considering all these facts and circumstances, it appears to be a fit case of grant of bail. I direct that the petitioner be released on bail on his furnishing a personal bond in the sum of Rs. 25,000/- with two sureties in the like amount to the satisfaction of the concerned Court, subject to the conditions that he shall join the investigation as and when required by the I.O. and shall inform the Customs authorities about his visits abroad with expected duration of such visit before he leaves India.