Uttarakhand High Court issues circular allowing summons to be sent via WhatsApp/email in cheque bounce cases
The Uttarakhand High Court in Nainital has issued a significant order regarding the issuance of summons in cheque bounce cases. The High Court has ordered that the state can now issue summons in cheque bounce cases via email and WhatsApp.
Uttarakhand High Court Circular on Check Bounce Cases
According to a circular issued by Registrar General Yogesh Kumar Gupta, the court has directed that summons in check bounce cases will no longer be sent only through traditional methods. Under the Uttarakhand Electronic Process Rules, 2025, summons can now also be sent via email, mobile phones, and messaging applications like WhatsApp.
As per the High Court circular, while filing a complaint, the complainant will have to provide the email and WhatsApp details of the accused person. A mandatory affidavit certifying the authenticity of the information must also be provided.
Procedure for Sending Summons
A synopsis in a prescribed format will have to be attached with each complaint, which will be entered into the computer system by the court staff. Before issuing a summons to the accused, no additional procedure under Section 223 of the BNNS will be required.
Online Payment Option Also Introduced
The circular states that a new draft template has been added to the software, which will automatically calculate the limitation period related to the ’cause of action’. The court has introduced an online payment option. The summons will now clearly mention the online payment facility along with a payment link.
Circular Issued in Compliance with Supreme Court Judgment
The accused will be able to deposit the cheque amount directly by entering the CNR number or case credentials. If the accused makes the payment through this facility, the court may close the case on the basis of compounding. These directions were issued in compliance with the recent Supreme Court judgment in the case of Sanjeev Turi vs. Kishore S. Barkar.
Penal Action Possible for False Information
The Supreme Court observed that millions of cheque bounce cases are pending across the country, placing a heavy burden on the judiciary. The High Court said that providing incorrect email or WhatsApp information could lead to punitive action.
