SUMAN SETHI vs AJAY K. CHURIWAL — Crl.A. No. 113/2000

Summary of Suman Sethi v. Ajay K. Churiwal (Crl.A. No. 113/2000) The Supreme Court dismissed Suman Sethi's appeal challenging the Calcutta High Court's order that upheld a valid demand notice under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act. The notice demanding payment of a dishonoured cheque of Rs. 20 lakhs was valid despite including additional charges (incidental and notice fees) because the cheque amount itself was clearly stated and severable from ancillary claims. The Court held that a demand notice under Section 138 must demand the cheque amount, but additional claims for interest or costs do not invalidate it if separately specified; the drawer's criminal liability ceases only upon payment of the cheque amount within 15 days, while other claims must be pursued civilly. This case analysis is maintained by casestatus.in based on publicly available court records.