1. The challenge in the present criminal revision is to the order dated 05.03.2024 passed by learned Additional Sessions Judge, Sirsa, dismissing the appeal preferred against the judgment of conviction dated 24.04.2023 and order of sentence dated 25.04.2023 passed by learned Judicial Magistrate Ist Class, Sirsa, vide which the petitioner was convicted and sentenced to undergo rigorous imprisonment for two years under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instrument Act, 1881 (for short, ‘the Act’) and to pay compensation.

2. The facts relevant as narrated in the complaint filed under Section 138 of the NI Act are that the accused had issued post dated cheque dated 31.12.2014, amounting to Rs.10 lakh, in favour of the complainant. However, on presentation thereof, the same was dishonoured and returned with the remarks “Insufficient Funds”. Despite issuance of legal notice, the petitioner failed to make the payment within the stipulated period. The proceedings against him were initiated under Section 138 of the NI Act, pursuant to which, he appeared and was released on bail. On finding prima facie case under Section 138 of the NI Act, notice of accusation was served upon him, to which he plea