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TMI Blog1979 (1) TMI 106X X X X Extracts X X X X X X X X Extracts X X X X ..... ing the accused-petitioner under Section 135 of the Custom Act, 1962 and sentencing him to rigorous imprisonment for 16 years and a fine of Rs. 1000/- and in case of default in payment of fine further rigorous imprisonment for six months. 2. Briefly stated the facts are that on 31-8-1968 the accused-petitioner .was found in possession of two gold biscuits weighing 20 tolas which had been smuggle ..... X X X X Extracts X X X X X X X X Extracts X X X X ..... offence which should be dealt with heavy hand. Such trade in smuggled goods undercuts the economy of the country. Such an offence therefore, does not call for a lenient view. My attention was also drawn to the case of Soni Vallabhdas Liladhar Anr. v. Soni Narandas Nagjibhari (A.I.R. 1965 S.C. 481) wherein the sentence was not reduced. I have considered the authority and in my opinion it would no ..... X X X X Extracts X X X X X X X X Extracts X X X X ..... ffenders who commit the offence. Therefore, with regard to the offenders it has to be seen whether the offender is a habitual smuggler or a trader in the smuggled goods. If he belongs to this class he ought to be dealt with a heavy hand. However, the offender may be of a class which is tempted to make some occasional purchase for the household or because of the compulsion of fashion. The lack of p ..... X X X X Extracts X X X X X X X X Extracts X X X X ..... ence of adequate public education such a sentence will not serve any useful purpose. I am, therefore, of the view that each case will have to be decided in its own facts and circumstances and where a heavy sentence is sought, adequate circumstances should be brought in support of the demand. It would not suffice to merely urge that the offence is anti-social in character. Some more light has to be ..... X X X X Extracts X X X X X X X X Extracts X X X X
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