Dishonour of Account Payee Cheque: Complaint Must Be Filed at Payee’s Home Branch

The Supreme Court clarified the territorial jurisdiction under Section 142(2)(a) of the NI Act, holding that complaints relating to dishonoured account payee cheques must be filed where the payee's bank branch is located. The ruling resolves jurisdictional confusion and ensures consistency in cheque dishonour litigation. The Court emphasized that the legislative intention was to protect payees from undue hardship and prevent forum shopping by drawers.