Despite last-minute attempts by Nirav Modi's lawyers, the Income Tax department on Monday said it would go ahead with its marquee auction of 68 of the fugitive's choicest paintings.

"[Nirav Modi's lawyers] filed a writ petition against the auction but the Bombay High Court did not grant a stay and listed it for a further date," Income Tax spokesperson Surabhi Ahluvalia told mid-day. "We have also been advised by our senior standing counsel that there is no judicial impediment in moving ahead with the auction, so we will go ahead with our plan on Tuesday. The auctioning will take place not for three days but for only one day. All the 68 paintings will be auctioned."