Robin Uthappa's Summons Overturned: Court Orders Inquiry in Cheque Bounce Case

A sessions court recently overturned the magistrate-issued summons against ex-cricketer Robin Uthappa, involved in a 2019 cheque bounce case, citing the absence of a required inquiry under the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC).

In a decision last month, Additional Session Judge Kunal Dhanaji Jadhav remanded the case back to the trial court, mandating an inquiry under CrPC's Section 202. This section necessitates a preliminary investigation to ascertain grounds for processing summons, especially when the accused resides outside jurisdiction.

Uthappa, represented by advocate Siddhesh Borkar, contested the June 2019 magistrate order, arguing the lack of inquiry under Section 202. Furthermore, Uthappa claimed to be a non-active director of Centaurus Lifestyle, highlighting his limited involvement when the cheque, labeled "insufficient balance," was dishonoured.

(With inputs from agencies.)