Definition: Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act outlines the offense of dishonoring a cheque due to insufficient funds or if the amount exceeds what is available in the drawer’s account.Conditions for Filing a Complaint: To file a cheque bounce complaint under Section 138, the following conditions must be fulfilled:

1. The cheque must be presented to the bank within six months from the date it was issued or within its validity period.
2. The payee or holder of the cheque must issue a demand notice within 30 days of the cheque being dishonored.
3. The drawer of the dishonored cheque must fail to make the payment within 15 days of receiving the notice.

Penalties: If found guilty, the drawer may face imprisonment for up to two years, a fine that could be twice the amount of the cheque, or both.Compounding: In many cases, the parties may reach a settlement by compounding the offense, subject to the court’s approval.Jurisdiction: Cheque bounce cases are generally tried in magistrate courts, and the case must be filed in the location where the bank or branch is situated or where the cheque was presented.Multiple Cheques: Separate complaints can be filed for each dishonored cheque if multiple cheques bounce.Legal Recourse: If you are the payee or holder of a dishonored cheque, you can file a complaint under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act. It is important to consult with a qualified lawyer to navigate the legal process effectively.Cheque bounce cases require strict adherence to legal procedures, and it is advisable to stay updated on any changes in legal requirements.