JUDGMENT :

Rastogi, J.

1. Leave granted.

2. The instant appeals are directed against the decision of the High Court of Manipur dated 28th October, 2021 and 16th September, 2021 setting aside the order of detention passed under Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1988 (hereinafter referred to as “the Act 1988”) on the premise that the appellants failed to supply the legible copies of documents which were relied upon by the appellants while passing the order of detention under the provisions of the Act 1988.

3. Respondent no. 1, in both the appeals, was released pursuant to the order impugned dated 28th October, 2021 passed by the High Court and the period of detention of one year also expired.

4. Notice was issued by this Court on 18th April, 2022, but no one appeared on behalf of respondent no. 1 despite service of notice.

5. On the last date of hearing, i.e., 1st September 2022, this Court requested Ms. Prerna Singh, learned Advocate to appear as Amicus Curiae on behalf of respondent no.1 in both the appeals which she voluntarily accepted and assisted the Court.

6. We have heard learned counsel for the appellants, Ms. Prerna Singh, Amicus Curi