Summary
- The Karnataka High Court has quashed a conviction under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, ruling that a complaint filed before the statutory 15-day period for payment is invalid.
- The court emphasized that the cause of action only arises after the 15 days following receipt of a demand notice, referencing Supreme Court precedents.
- The complainant has been granted permission to file a fresh complaint within one month, with any delay condoned under Section 142(b).
- This ruling underscores the importance of adhering to procedural timelines in cheque dishonour cases, ensuring that drawers cannot escape prosecution on technical grounds.
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