Red Sanders Disposal Guidelines CBIC Issues Clear Protocol for DRI and Customs
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued detailed instructions for the disposal of Red Sanders seized by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and Customs field formations. Red Sanders, a rare and protected wood species under CITES, often becomes a target for illegal export. With its high value and restricted trade status, the proper disposal of seized Red Sanders has legal and environmental implications.
Why Are Red Sanders Seizures Significant?
- Protected under CITES (Appendix II)
- Export prohibited without DGFT license
- Frequently smuggled for high international demand
- Valued for medicinal, cosmetic, and timber uses
Key CBIC Circular Highlights
📜 Circular No. 11/2024-Customs, dated 27.02.2024
🔗 Source – CBIC Official Website
Step-by-Step Disposal Process Prescribed by CBIC
| Step | Action Point |
|---|---|
| 1️⃣ | Confirm Red Sanders species via Botanical Survey of India (BSI) or Forest Research Institute (FRI) |
| 2️⃣ | File confiscation orders under Section 111 of Customs Act, 1962 |
| 3️⃣ | Transfer custody to Jurisdictional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) |
| 4️⃣ | Maintain secure storage with detailed inventory & physical safeguards |
| 5️⃣ | Disposal must follow guidelines issued by Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) |
| 6️⃣ | For export disposal: Follow DGFT and MoEFCC approvals |
| 7️⃣ | Proceeds from auction to be deposited in the Consolidated Fund of India |
Legal & Environmental Considerations
- Customs Act, 1962: Seizure and confiscation follow provisions under Sections 110 and 111.
- MoEFCC Guidelines: CBIC mandates adherence to the Forest (Conservation) Act and MoEFCC notifications.
Expert View: Why Proper Disposal Matters
“Improper disposal or delay in handling Red Sanders cases could lead to legal challenges, loss of public revenue, or even environmental violations. CBIC’s SOP ensures both transparency and ecological responsibility.”
– Amit Vyas, Ex-DRI Official and Environmental Compliance Advisor
Quick Checklist for Customs/DRI Officers
- Get species verified by BSI or FRI
- Pass confiscation orders legally
- Hand over to forest authorities immediately
- Avoid long-term storage due to degradation risk
- Ensure compliance with export norms (if applicable)
📚 FAQs: Red Sanders Disposal
Q1. Can Red Sanders be auctioned for export?
Yes, but only after obtaining permission from DGFT and MoEFCC under strict CITES norms.
Q2. Who is responsible for safeguarding the seized Red Sanders?
Initially, the DRI or Customs, until it is handed over to PCCF as per protocol.
Q3. What happens to the proceeds of Red Sanders disposal?
They are deposited in the Consolidated Fund of India, as per CBIC and MoEFCC rules.
Final Thoughts & CTA
CBIC’s circular bridges a long-standing operational gap in the disposal of Red Sanders by ensuring legality, safety, and environmental accountability. It brings inter-agency coordination between Customs, Forest Departments, and Environment Ministry into a structured workflow.
Summary
CBIC Circular No. 11/2024 clarifies the process for Red Sanders disposal seized by DRI and Customs, including species verification, handover to forest authorities, and MoEFCC compliance, ensuring legal transparency and environmental safety.