The Controlled Delivery (Customs) Regulations, 2022

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Dated: 21.05.2026

The Controlled Delivery (Customs) Regulations, 2022

The Controlled Delivery (Customs) Regulations, 2022, issued by the Government of India, establish a legal framework for monitoring and intercepting suspicious consignments under the Customs Act, 1962. These regulations are a significant step in strengthening the enforcement capabilities of Indian customs authorities, particularly in combating smuggling and trafficking of prohibited or regulated goods.

What is Controlled Delivery?

Controlled delivery is a law enforcement technique where authorities allow suspicious consignments to pass through borders under surveillance, with the aim of identifying and apprehending individuals or networks involved in illegal activities. This approach is especially effective in dismantling organized crime and smuggling operations.

Legal Foundation

The regulations are enacted under the powers conferred by Section 157, read with Section 109A of the Customs Act, 1962. They came into force upon their publication in the Official Gazette on July 12, 2022.

Key Definitions

The regulations provide clear definitions to ensure precise enforcement:

Act: Refers to the Customs Act, 1962.
Form: Any form annexed to these regulations for official procedures.
Goods: The term ‘goods’ is broadly defined to include a range of items that are often subject to smuggling or illegal trade. These include:
- Narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, precursor chemicals, controlled substances, or their substitutes
- Gold and silver in all forms, including jewellery
- Precious and semi-precious stones
- Liquor and other intoxicating drinks
- Currency and negotiable instruments, including counterfeits
- Cigarettes, tobacco, and tobacco products
- Wildlife products
- Antiques and antiquities

Scope and Application

The regulations apply to any consignment containing the above-mentioned goods, regardless of whether their nature, quantity, or description is correctly declared. This broad scope ensures that customs authorities can act on any suspicious shipment, even if attempts are made to conceal the true nature of the goods.

Importance of the Regulations

Enhanced Enforcement: By formalizing controlled delivery procedures, customs officers are better equipped to track and intercept illegal consignments.
Targeting Organized Crime: The regulations are designed to help authorities identify and dismantle criminal networks involved in smuggling.
Comprehensive Coverage: The inclusion of a wide range of goods ensures that various forms of illegal trade, from narcotics to wildlife trafficking, are addressed.

Conclusion

The Controlled Delivery (Customs) Regulations, 2022, mark a proactive approach by Indian authorities to combat smuggling and related crimes. By defining the scope, procedures, and types of goods covered, these regulations provide a robust legal foundation for effective enforcement and protection of national interests.

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Source: CBIC, Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India

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