HARPAL SINGH vs STATE OF PUNJAB

The Supreme Court upheld the conviction of the appellant under Section 5 of the Explosive Substances Act, 1908, affirming the Designated Court's finding that the prosecution established the recovery of explosive powder from the appellant. The Court clarified that the provisions of the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act, 1987 (TADA) do not preclude the trial of offences under other statutes when connected. The appeal was dismissed, and the sentence of 5 years rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs. 1,000 was maintained.