#quashing of conviction

Gujarat High Court quashes conviction under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act even after appeal-stage settlement, but imposes Rs. 10,000 costs for delayed resolution. The ruling reaffirms that compoundable offences under Section 147 can be settled at any judicial stage, offering relief to accused while deterring frivolous litigation.

Bombay High Court sets precedent allowing quashing of conviction under Section 307 IPC after trial if parties reach a verified, voluntary compromise-even in non-compoundable offences-provided the settlement serves public interest and victim’s rights are safeguarded. The ruling reinforces Section 482 CrPC’s inherent powers to prevent abuse of process where reconciliation aligns with justice.

Gujarat High Court quashed a conviction under Section 326 IPC after 26 years, holding that compromise between parties and the death of the principal accused justify quashing even in non-compoundable offences to prevent abuse of process. The ruling underscores the court's inherent powers to secure justice in prolonged litigation.