#compensation under CrPC

Chhattisgarh High Court sets aside jail terms for four first-time offenders under Section 323 IPC, enhancing fines to Rs. 3,000 each and directing Rs. 4,000 compensation per victim. The ruling reaffirms rehabilitation as the binding sentencing doctrine for minor offences, prioritising victim restitution over punitive measures.

Kerala High Court upholds conviction under Section 138 NI Act, ruling that a power of attorney holder with direct knowledge of the transaction can validly testify. The court also clarified that mere endorsement of a cheque to a third party does not negate the original payee's rights, reinforcing the complainant's locus standi in cheque dishonour cases.