In a recent landmark ruling, the Supreme Court of India has clarified that the provision for interim compensation in cases of cheque dishonour under Section 143A of the Negotiable Instruments Act is not mandatory. The apex court has set forth comprehensive guidelines outlining the broad parameters for the application of interim compensation in such cases, providing clarity and direction to lower courts and stakeholders involved in cheque dishonour disputes.
The judgment, delivered by a bench of esteemed justices, addresses a significant legal issue that has been a subject of debate and varying interpretations in the past. Section 143A of the Negotiable Instruments Act, introduced to address the issue of delay and hardship faced by payees in cheque dishonour cases, empowers the court to direct the drawer of the dishonoured cheque to pay interim compensation to the payee during the pendency of the trial.
However, the Supreme Court, in its wisdom, has ruled that the provision for interim compensation is discretionary and not mandatory. The bench emphasized that the courts must exercise caution and discretion while ordering interim compensation, taking into account various factors such as the financial capacity of the drawer, the conduct of the parties, and the merit of the case.
The judgment lays down clear guidelines for lower courts to follow when considering applications for interim compensation in cheque dishonour cases. It underscores the importance of balancing the interests of both the payee and the drawer, ensuring that justice is served without unduly burdening either party.
Furthermore, the Supreme Court highlighted the need for expeditious disposal of cheque dishonour cases to prevent undue hardship to the payee and uphold the sanctity of commercial transactions. The bench stressed the importance of swift justice in such matters to maintain trust and confidence in the financial system.
The ruling has been welcomed by legal experts, who view it as a balanced and pragmatic approach to the issue of interim compensation in cheque dishonour cases. By providing clarity on the discretionary nature of Section 143A of the Negotiable Instruments Act, the Supreme Court has contributed to the evolution of jurisprudence in this area, ensuring fairness and equity in the resolution of cheque dishonour disputes.
In conclusion, the Supreme Court’s judgment on the non-mandatory nature of interim compensation in cheque dishonour cases sets a significant precedent and provides valuable guidance to courts and litigants navigating this complex legal terrain. By delineating clear parameters and emphasizing discretion in the application of interim compensation, the apex court has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding justice and fairness in commercial transactions.

Delhi High Court Denies Prayer Rights at Historic Mehrauli Mosque, Upholding Demolition Decision
In a significant ruling, the Delhi High Court has dismissed a plea seeking permission to offer prayers during Ramzan at the ancient 600-year-old mosque in Mehrauli, which was recently demolished. The court’s decision upholds the demolition of the historic mosque and underscores the importance of adhering to legal and regulatory processes in matters concerning religious sites and heritage structures.
The plea, which was filed by a group of worshippers seeking to continue their religious activities at the mosque despite its demolition, was met with a firm rejection by the High Court. The court, in its judgment, emphasized the need to respect the rule of law and the decisions taken by relevant authorities regarding the preservation and maintenance of heritage sites.
The 600-year-old mosque in Mehrauli, known for its architectural and historical significance, had been at the center of a contentious debate following its demolition due to structural concerns. The decision to raze the mosque, taken by the authorities in charge of heritage conservation, had sparked protests and legal challenges from individuals and groups seeking to preserve the site for religious and cultural reasons.
The High Court’s ruling, while acknowledging the sentiments of the worshippers and their desire to continue their religious practices at the mosque, prioritized the larger considerations of heritage preservation and adherence to legal procedures. The court underscored the need to strike a balance between religious freedoms and the protection of historical structures, emphasizing that the rule of law must be upheld in all circumstances.
The judgment also highlighted the significance of following due process and obtaining necessary approvals and clearances before undertaking any construction or renovation activities at heritage sites. The court stressed that decisions regarding the use and preservation of historical monuments must be guided by established legal frameworks and expert recommendations to ensure the conservation of cultural heritage for future generations.
The denial of the plea to offer prayers during Ramzan at the demolished mosque serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges involved in balancing religious practices with heritage conservation efforts. The ruling reiterates the principle that legal and regulatory requirements must be adhered to, even in matters related to religious sites with deep historical and cultural significance.
While the decision may have disappointed the worshippers who sought to continue their religious observances at the mosque, it underscores the High Court’s commitment to upholding the integrity of heritage structures and ensuring that decisions regarding their preservation are made in accordance with established norms and guidelines.
In conclusion, the Delhi High Court’s rejection of the plea to offer prayers during Ramzan at the demolished 600-year-old mosque in Mehrauli underscores the importance of respecting legal processes and heritage preservation mandates. The ruling reaffirms the principle that decisions concerning historical monuments must be guided by expert opinions and regulatory frameworks to safeguard our rich cultural heritage for posterity.