Cheque Bounce (NI Act Section 138): The Process After 2025 Reforms: Frequently Asked Questions in Hyderabad

In Hyderabad, here is a general overview of common questions on cheque bounce (ni act section 138) for someone in Hyderabad.

Before the frequently asked questions

In Sanjabij Tari v Kishore S. Borcar (25 Sep 2025, effective 1 Nov 2025), the Supreme Court directed that summons in cheque bounce cases be served by the complainant both by hand (dasti) and electronically (email or WhatsApp, as state rules permit), with the complainant disclosing the accused's contact details on affidavit.

The same ruling directed district courts to set up QR/UPI payment links so an accused can make early payment conveniently, and expressed a preference for summary trial with a mandatory complaint synopsis.

Frequently asked questions

How is a cheque bounce case served on the accused now?

Since 1 November 2025, following Sanjabij Tari v Kishore S. Borcar, summons must be served both by hand (dasti) and electronically, such as by email or WhatsApp depending on the relevant state rules, with the complainant providing the accused's contact details on affidavit.

What does it cost to settle a cheque bounce case?

It depends on the stage. Settling before any defence evidence is led carries no compounding cost; after defence evidence but before judgment it is 5% of the cheque amount, rising to 7.5% on appeal or revision and 10% at the Supreme Court.

Relevant forums in Hyderabad

• The High Court with jurisdiction is the Telangana High Court.
• Matters at the district level are generally handled at the Ranga Reddy District Court (L.B. Nagar) or Medchal-Malkajgiri District Court, depending on the area.

For a fuller explanation, see Recovering Money Owed to You: The Limitation Period and Your Options and Recovering Delayed Payments as an MSME.

If this touches a situation you are dealing with, you are welcome to discuss it in a consultation.

This page is general information about the law in India and is not legal advice. The position can vary with the facts, so it is worth getting advice on your specific situation.