In Brief
A non-resident Indian accused of cheating and breach of trust was summoned during trial years after the complaint, leading to his declaration as a proclaimed offender while abroad. The High Court declined to quash proceedings despite the main accused being exonerated through compromise settlement. The Supreme Court held that the case had a predominantly civil character—a commercial dispute about failed job placement abroad. Since the complainant had settled with the main accused and proceedings against him were closed, continuing against the appellant became oppressive and abusive. The Court quashed the proceedings, emphasizing that Section 482 Cr.P.C. inherent powers must be exercised to prevent abuse where parties have fully resolved their civil dispute.
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