#Criminal Revision Case

The Andhra Pradesh High Court has ruled that courts may reduce the mandatory 20% deposit under Section 148 of the Negotiable Instruments Act to 10% when the accused demonstrates compelling financial distress and serious health conditions that impair livelihood. This sets a precedent for judicial discretion in cheque bounce cases, balancing creditor rights with constitutional protections against disproportionate hardship.

The Andhra Pradesh High Court ruled that a wife earning Rs. 40,000/month as a government employee cannot claim maintenance under Section 125 CrPC, emphasizing that financial independence negates the husband's obligation. The decision reinforces the provision's limited scope to cases of genuine need, impacting matrimonial disputes where spouses are self-sufficient.