10/09/2025
*City Magistrate Srinagar Convicts Man in ₹40 Lakh Cheque Bounce Case; Judge Abdul Bari’s Verdict Earns Praise*
*Faisal Bukhari*
Srinagar, Sep 10 (BAN)
In a landmark judgment safeguarding the integrity of financial transactions, the City Judge Srinagar, Mr. Abdul Bari, has convicted a Srinagar resident in a high-value cheque bounce case under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act.
The convict, Hakeem Zaffar Ahmad of Buchpora, was sentenced to one year of simple imprisonment and ordered to pay ₹40,35,000 as compensation to the complainant, Rattan Singh of Lalpora, Tral Pulwama. The compensation amount includes the principal cheque value of ₹30 lakh along with 6% interest, to be paid within one month after the expiry of the appeal period or its disposal. In case of default, the convict will serve an additional three months’ imprisonment.
The complainant was represented by Advocate Irfan Qadir, who ably advanced the case and produced cogent evidence, including the dishonoured cheques, loan undertakings, and receipts. Despite the defense claim that the cheques were forcibly signed and not issued for a valid debt, the court found no substantiation for such assertions. The accused had neither lodged any police complaint nor informed bank authorities about the alleged coercion.
After careful evaluation of witness testimony and documentary evidence, Judge Abdul Bari held that the cheques were issued towards repayment of a legally enforceable debt, not as security, and the complainant had successfully proved all essential elements of the offence. The court further emphasized that the accused failed to rebut the statutory presumption under Section 139 NI Act, thereby establishing his liability.
This judgment is being widely appreciated in legal and business circles as a bold and well-reasoned decision that strengthens faith in the judicial system. Observers have praised City Judge Abdul Bari for his firm stance against financial delinquency, ensuring that victims of cheque dishonour are not left remediless. Legal practitioners also lauded Advocate Irfan Qadir for his effective representation of the complainant, which played a crucial role in securing justice.
The ruling sends out a strong message that cheque dishonour will not be tolerated and that the courts remain committed to upholding the credibility of commercial dealings and banking transactions.--(BAN)
*Buland Awaaz News*
