1) To what extent the Session Judge or Magistrate can permit accused to put his defence at pre-cognizance stage as per S 223 of BNSS?
2) No Need For Pre-Cognizance Summons To Accused In S.138 NI Act Case : Supreme Court Issues Directions For Speedy Trial Of Cheque Bounce Cases
E. Recently, the High Court of Karnataka in Ashok v. Fayaz Aahmad MANU/KA/1743/2025 has taken the view that since NI Act is a special enactment, there is no need for the Magistrate to issue summons to the Accused before taking cognizance (Under Section 223 of BNSS) of complaints filed Under Section 138 of NI Act. This Court is in agreement with the view taken by the High Court of Karnataka. Consequently, this Court directs that there shall be no requirement to issue summons to the Accused in terms of Section 223 of BNSS i.e., at the pre-cognizance stage.
IN THE SUPREME COURT OF INDIA
Criminal Appeal No. 1755 of 2010
Decided On: 25.09.2025
Sanjabij Tari Vs. Kishore S. Borcar and Ors.
Hon'ble Judges/Coram:
Manmohan and N.V. Anjaria, JJ.
Author: Manmohan, J.
https://www.lawweb.in/2025/09/no-need-for-pre-cognizance-summons-to.html
.png)
.png)
