(1.) THIS writ petition was filed on 9th October 2007 challenging the order dated 7th September, 2007 passed under section 7 (1) and section 7 (3) as also under section 19 (1) of the Smugglers and Foreign Exchange manipulators (Forfeiture of Property) Act, 1976 (safema for short). During its pendency, on 25th March, 2008, the wife of the petitioner filed an application being G. A. No. 929 of 2008 for addition of party and also challenging the notice under section 6 (1) of SAFEMA dated 3rd March, 2008. Subsequently, on 16th April, 2008, the writ petitioner filed an application being G. A. No. 1246 of 2008 for amendment of the writ petition for incorporating statements, and grounds challenging the order of detention dated 22nd August, 1995 passed under the Conservation of Foreign Exchange and Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act, 1974 (hereinafter referred to as cofeposa) and for consequential reliefs.

(2.) THE facts of the case are as follows : the petitioner was served with an order of detention dated 22nd August, 1995 under COFEPOSA issued by the Joint Secretary, Ministry of Finance, government of India. Pursuant to the order of detention, the petitioner on 28th Augus