CBI told to release seized CDs

In a criminal complaint of violation of the Information Technology Act and the Copyright Act, the Supreme Court has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to release seized CDs to the accused person subject to certain conditions. In this case, Tarun Tyagi vs CBI, an information technology company lodged a complaint of theft of its data recovery software by a former employee who started his own firm. His premises were searched and the CDs were recovered. During trial, he wanted the CDs back to defend himself. The CBI contended that he might tamper with the contents. The apex court said the CDs should be returned to ensure a fair trial. It ordered supply of CDs after making copies in the court in the presence of the parties.