S. Shamsul Hasan, J.

These two writ applications were heard together and are being disposed of by this common judgment because they involve the same questions for determination.

2. Cr.W.J C No: 18/81 (R) (hereinafter referred to as 'the Ranchi Case') seeks quashing of the police investigation pending in Ranchi Kotwali P.S. Case No. 17(6)76, and Cr. W.J.C. No. 19/81 (R) (hereinafter referred to as 'the Hazaribagh Case') seeks quashing of the police investigation pending in Hazaribagh Sadar P.S. Case No. 13/(4)76.

3. The Ranchi case is being investigated on the basis of a F.I.R. lodged by the Additional District Magistrate, Ranchi, on 7.6.1976 under sections 420, 406, 409 and 120B of the Indian Penal Code. The Hazaribagh case is being investigated on the basis of a F.I.R. lodged by the Additional Collector, Hazaribagh, dated 16.4.76 -Attached to the F.I.R. of Ranchi case is a statement of cheques and a note of expenditure of accounts maintained by the District Lottery Officer, Ranchi, recorded by P.S. Prasad, District Accounts Officer, Ranchi, on 14.3.76, 15.3.76, 17.3.76 and 18.3.76. Also similarly attached is a statement of cheques with the Hazaribagh case.

4. Taking up the Ra