SURINDER SINGH DESWAL @ COL. S. S. DESWAL vs VIRENDER GANDHI

The Supreme Court upheld the High Court's decision confirming the order of the Additional Sessions Judge directing the appellants to deposit 25% of the compensation amount under the amended Section 148 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881. The Court clarified that the amendment applies to all pending proceedings, rejecting the appellants' argument that it should not apply to cases initiated prior to the amendment. The Court emphasized the legislative intent behind the amendment to ensure prompt payment of compensation in cheque dishonor cases.