Passport Authority Cannot Decide If Accused Has Right To Travel Abroad, Such Power Is Only Vested In Trial Court: Gujarat High Court

Gujarat High Court Affirms Accused's Right to Passport Renewal and International Travel During Trial: The Gujarat High Court upheld the fundamental right of an accused person to have their passport renewed and to undertake international travel even while facing an ongoing trial. In its judgment, the court carefully balanced the individual's personal liberty and the necessity of judicial proceedings and investigation. The court permitted the travel, subject to appropriate safeguards such as the accused providing a detailed travel itinerary, adhering to periodic reporting requirements to the concerned authorities, and potentially furnishing financial guarantees to ensure their return for the trial.