20% cheque deposit condition for sentence suspension in cheque bounce appeal is reasonable and non-interferable.

ORDER

The present petition has been filed by the appellant in C.A. No.42 of 2026 on the file of the learned Principal Sessions Court, Thoothukudi, seeking to set aside the order dated 13.03.2026 passed in Cr.M.P. No.1176 of 2026.

2. A perusal of the records reveals that the petitioner has suffered an order of conviction in S.T.C. No.356 of 2022 on the file of the Fast Track Court Magistrate Level, Thoothukudi, on 27.01.2026. Aggrieved by the same, the petitioner preferred an appeal in C.A. No.42 of 2026 before the Principal Sessions Court, Thoothukudi. As a condition precedent, for suspension of sentence, the learned Judge imposed a condition directing the petitioner to deposit 20% of the cheque amount, i.e., Rs.80,000/-, on or before 10.04.2026.

Challenging the said condition, the present petition has been filed.

3. The learned counsel appearing for the petitioner submitted that the petitioner is a widow and sought reduction of the condition imposed.

4. Heard the learned counsel appearing for the petitioner and perused the materials available on record.

5. Considering the fact that the cheque amount is Rs.4,00,000/- and that the trial Court has directed deposit of only 20% of the cheque amount, which does not include compensation, this Court is not inclined to interfere with the said condition.

6. However, the learned counsel for the petitioner sought extension of time for compliance. Accordingly, the time granted to deposit the amount by the Principal Sessions Court, Thoothukudi, is extended till 27.04.2026. Except for the above modification, the impugned order stands confirmed.