Interim compensation under Section 143A cannot be used to deny cross-examination; recovery follows the statutory mechanism separately.

Non-deposit of interim compensation ordered under Section 143A of the Negotiable Instruments Act does not, by itself, deprive the accused of the right to cross-examine the complainant. The provision requires payment within the statutory period and allows recovery as if it were a fine under Section 421 CrPC, with later adjustment against any final fine or compensation and repayment with interest if the accused is acquitted. Because the statute creates a separate recovery mechanism, non-payment cannot be used to block a procedural defence right during trial.

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Issues: Whether non-deposit of interim compensation ordered under Section 143A of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881 bars the accused from cross-examining the complainant.

Analysis: Interim compensation under Section 143A is payable within the period prescribed by the statute and, if unpaid, may be recovered as if it were a fine under Section 421 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. The provision also contemplates adjustment against any fine or compensation ultimately awarded and provides for repayment with interest if the accused is acquitted. These features show that the statutory recovery mechanism is separate from the conduct of the trial. Non-payment of interim compensation does not, by itself, authorise denial of the accused's procedural right to cross-examine the complainant.

Conclusion: The accused cannot be denied cross-examination merely because interim compensation under Section 143A has not been deposited.

Final Conclusion: The challenge to the orders of the courts below failed, and the criminal petition was rejected.

Ratio Decidendi: Non-deposit of interim compensation under Section 143A of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881 does not extinguish the accused's right to cross-examine, since the statute provides a separate recovery mechanism under Section 421 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973.

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