Quashing followed from premature cognisance

The Magistrate took cognisance before condoning the delay. The later condonation order did not cure that defect. The Supreme Court held that the order was contrary to Section 142(1)(b). The High Court’s refusal to quash was set aside. The complaint was registered as PCR No. 3144 of 2013. It was later converted into CC No. 1439 of 2014. The Supreme Court directed that the complaint and converted case be quashed. The appeal was accordingly allowed. (S. Nagesh v. Shobha S. Aradhya | 2026 INSC 27)