( 1 ) I have heard the learned counsel for the applicants and the learned counsel for respondent No. 1 at length and the matter is being disposed of finally at the admission stage.

( 2 ) APPLICANTS are challenging the order of issuance of process dated 15-9-2004 passed by the Metropolitan Magistrate, 24th court, Esplanade, Mumbai and also the complaint which is filed under section 499 of the Indian Penal Code.

( 3 ) BRIEF facts which are relevant for the purpose of deciding this Criminal application are as under :-

( 4 ) APPLICANTS are associated with hindustan Times Limited which is a company registered and incorporated in New delhi and which is engaged in the business of printing and distribution of Hindustan times News Paper which is published from new Delhi. All the applicants are arraigned as accused in the Criminal Case filed by respondent No. 1 for the offence punishable under sections 500,501,502 read with section 34 of the Indian Penal Code.

( 5 ) RESPONDENT No. l was working in Office of Zonal Director of Narcotics control Bureau, referred to as NCB. He was sent there on deputation from the Customs department which was his parent department. Applicants published an