The Kerala High Court on 8 October 2026 overturned Sujith’s acquittal in a ₹9,30,230 cheque-dishonour case, holding that issuance of a cheque can revive liability for a time-barred debt.
Judge / Bench — A. Badharudeen, J.
In Criminal Appeal 2002/2024, the Court found the transaction and execution proved. It held that the debt’s earlier limitation bar did not itself defeat prosecution under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act.
Sujith was sentenced to imprisonment until the court rises and a ₹14 lakh fine, with six months’ imprisonment upon default. Of the recovered fine, ₹13.5 lakh is compensation and ₹50,000 goes to the State. He must appear before the Varkala magistrate on 31 October 2026.
Advocates appearing — Appellant/complainant: P. Rahul and Abhina L. Respondent 1/accused: Prasanth M.P., appointed State Brief after N. Sunil Joseph relinquished his engagement. State: Sajeev P.K., Senior Public Prosecutor.