Procedure Over Allegation: Supreme Court Quashes FIR Under UP Gangsters Act

The Supreme Court quashed an FIR registered under the Uttar Pradesh Gangsters and Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act, 1986, emphasizing that stringent laws require strict adherence to statutory procedures.

The Court set aside an Allahabad High Court order after finding that the mandatory "Gang Chart" lacked essential signatures and recommendations from the Nodal Officer and Additional Superintendent of Police.

Holding that when a statute prescribes a specific manner for an act, it must be performed in that manner or not at all.

The Court stated, given the Act’s "perilous nature," rigorous procedural compliance is vital to protect individual liberty. 

[Gabbar Singh @ Devendra Pratap Singh v. State of U.P. & Ors.]