#Criminal Revision Petition

Rajasthan High Court rules that an axe blow to the head constitutes sufficient prima facie evidence of intent to commit murder under BNS, justifying charge framing. The ruling clarifies that courts need not wait for trial to assess intent where the act itself demonstrates clear criminal purpose, impacting criminal procedure in violent offences.

Madhya Pradesh High Court sets aside dismissal of a criminal appeal under Section 138 NI Act solely on a 12-day delay, emphasizing that quasi-criminal matters demand a liberal approach to condonation. The ruling mandates merits hearing where delay is minimal and attributable to rural ignorance or procedural lapses, reinforcing access to justice in statutory appeals.

In a landmark ruling, the Karnataka High Court substituted imprisonment under Section 304A IPC with Rs. 4,00,000 compensation to the victim’s family, emphasizing restorative justice over punitive measures in accidental death cases. The decision sets a precedent for prioritizing victim compensation in motor accident offences involving rash and negligent driving.

Rajasthan High Court ruled that a Head Constable lacks authority to investigate offences carrying imprisonment exceeding seven years under BNSS, staying trial proceedings. The decision underscores statutory competence requirements for investigating officers, impacting criminal procedure compliance in serious offences.

Karnataka High Court rules that an investment agreement with profit-sharing terms constitutes a legally enforceable debt under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, making issued cheques liable for dishonour. The judgment clarifies that financial arrangements beyond traditional loans can trigger criminal liability for bounced cheques, impacting investors and entrepreneurs alike.

Karnataka High Court replaces a 12-year-old imprisonment sentence under Section 304-A IPC with Rs. 3,00,000 compensation, emphasizing victim relief over punitive measures in delayed accident cases. The ruling sets a precedent for judicial discretion favoring restorative justice where incarceration yields no rehabilitative benefit.

The Karnataka High Court ruled that interim maintenance under the PWDV Act cannot be granted solely on ex parte affidavits. Courts must record evidence to assess financial capacity and need before awarding maintenance, ensuring fairness to both parties. This sets a precedent for evidence-based adjudication in domestic violence cases.

The Karnataka High Court ruled that maintenance under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act cannot be reduced based on a husband's later unemployment, as the award is determined by past earning capacity. This reinforces the principle that financial obligations under the DV Act are not contingent on fluctuating employment status, ensuring consistent support for the aggrieved party.

Rajasthan High Court sets a precedent by quashing a conviction under Section 138 NI Act after a post-conviction compromise, imposing Rs. 30,000 costs for delayed settlement and wasted judicial resources. The ruling underscores that compoundable offences can be settled even after conviction, provided the complainant agrees and costs are imposed to deter frivolous litigation.

Madurai High Court allows interim return of a seized sand transport vehicle to its owner, imposing stringent conditions-Rs. 50,000 deposit, Rs. 8 lakh bond, and monthly court production-to balance property rights with prevention of re-offending. The ruling sets a precedent for conditional custody under BNSS Section 497, emphasizing judicial discretion over rigid seizure policies.

Kerala High Court upholds conviction under Section 138 NI Act, holding partners liable for dishonoured cheques issued by their firm. Key principles on vicarious liability and evidentiary standards clarified.