P&H: Upholds Conviction in Cheque Bounce Case, Refuses to Enhance Compensation

(i) Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, Ss.118, 138 and 139 — Dishonour of cheque — Presumption — Once accused admits his signatures on cheque, an initial presumption arises in favour of complainant that cheque was issued for discharge of a legally enforceable debt or liability —...

(ii) Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, Ss.138, 118 and 139 — Dishonour of cheque — Account closed and loss plea — Petitioner’s plea that cheques were lost was not accepted — Account had already been closed on borrower’s request before alleged loss report, and petitioner failed...

(iii) Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, S.138 — Conviction and sentence — Quantum of compensation — Loaned amount of Rs. 20 lakhs, cheques worth Rs. 50 lakhs were dishonoured and compensation of Rs. 60 lakhs was awarded — Compensation awarded was adequate in the attending facts...