In Brief
This case concerns a petition challenging an order that denied complete exemption from personal appearance in a cheque dishonour case under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act. The accused challenged a Sessions Judge's order requiring them to appear at least once before the trial court to furnish bail and undertakings. The Supreme Court upheld the lower court's order, holding that while discretion exists to allow appearance through counsel in rare cases, blanket exemption from personal appearance is not permissible in cheque dishonour cases. The requirement to appear once before the trial court was found reasonable and justified.
The lawyer headnote and full judgment text are available to registered users.