Extension of time to pay fine in cheque dishonour matters can suspend coercive execution steps temporarily.

Time for payment of fine in a cheque dishonour conviction may be extended where compliance with the modified sentence needs additional time, and coercive execution steps may be kept in suspension for that extended period. The petitioner was permitted time to deposit the fine and was directed to appear before the trial court within the extended period to either undergo the imprisonment till rising of court and pay the fine, or face execution in default. The operative effect is temporary protection from coercive steps while the modified sentence is complied with.

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Issues: Whether the time fixed for payment of fine in a cheque dishonour conviction could be extended and coercive steps kept in suspension to enable the petitioner to comply with the modified sentence.

Analysis: The petitioner sought further time to deposit the fine amount imposed in the earlier revision order and to avoid execution of the default sentence. The Court accepted that, in the interests of justice, the time for payment of the fine could be suitably extended. It also directed that, until expiry of the extended period, all coercive steps, including any warrant issued in execution of the sentence, would remain suspended. The petitioner was required to appear before the trial court within the extended time and either suffer the imprisonment till rising of court and pay the fine, or face execution in default.

Conclusion: The relief was granted by extending the time for payment of fine and suspending coercive steps for the extended period.

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