#Section 427 CrPC

The Rajasthan High Court has ruled that when a person is convicted under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act in multiple cases, the substantive prison terms may be ordered to run concurrently to avoid excessive incarceration. However, any default sentences arising from unpaid fines or compensation must still be served consecutively, preserving the deterrent effect of financial penalties. This clarifies sentencing practice for repeat cheque bounce offenders across India.

Allahabad High Court clarifies that under Section 427 CrPC, sentences run consecutively unless the trial court explicitly directs concurrent execution. The ruling impacts prisoners serving multiple sentences, mandating strict judicial direction for concurrent sentencing to avoid prolonged incarceration.