NI Act: Word ‘may’ used in Section 143A is directory in nature & not discretionary

Rajesh Soni Vs Mukesh Verma (Chhattisgarh High Court) Conclusion: The Hon’ble High Court in present facts of the case after interpreting the word ‘may’ have held that granting of 20% compensation under Section 143A of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881 is totally valid as the said provision is not discretionary in nature. Held: The petitioner has filed petition under Section 482 of Cr.P.C. challenging the order passed by Judicial Magistrate First Class, wherein learned trial court has allowed the application filed u/s 143A of the Act and has directed the petitioner to pay 20% of the ch...