R.V.Raveendran, J.—Leave granted. Heard.

2. The complainant in a complaint under section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881 (‘Act’ for short) is the appellant in this appeal by special leave. A cheque dated 31.3.1995 for Rs.20,000/- issued by the first respondent drawn in favour of the complainant, towards alleged repayment of a loan was dishonoured when presented for payment. The appellant sent a notice dated 20.4.1995 demanding payment. According to the complainant, the notice was served on the first respondent but the payment was not made. Therefore on 25.5.1995 the appellant lodged a complaint against the first respondent, under section 138 of the Act before the First Class Magistrate -IV, (Mobile), Thiruvananthapuram. After trial, the learned Magistrate by judgment dated 30.11.1996 found the accused guilty under section 138 of the Act and sentenced her to pay a fine of Rs.2000/- and in default to undergo imprisonment for one month. He also directed the accused to pay Rs.20,000/- as compensation to the complainant and in default to undergo simple imprisonment for three months.

3. The first respondent challenged the said judgment and the criminal appeal filed b