Delhi High Court Grants Default Bail to Accused in NDPS Case Over Extension Without Notice

The Delhi High Court has granted default bail to Jaivardhan Dhawan in an NDPS case, holding that extending the investigation period without notice violated Article 21.

Justice Neena Bansal Krishna observed that an accused must be produced, physically or virtually, when the prosecution seeks more time for investigation, as this safeguard is essential to protect the right to default bail.

Dhawan was arrested after seizure of Codeine Phosphate tablets from multiple consignments, though only a small quantity was allegedly recovered from his residence.

Finding that the mandatory requirement of notice was not followed, the High Court set aside the extension order and held that Dhawan’s right to default bail accrued automatically.

[Jaivardhan Dhawan v. Narcotics Control Bureau]