Nikhil Mathur, LL.M. (Jai Minesh Adivasi University, Kota) LL.B. (Faculty of Law, University of Delhi) ABSTRACT Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act 1881 which is a penal provision was introduced by The Banking, Public Financial Institutions and Negotiable Instruments Law (Amendment) Act 1988, which makes the requirement of a “legally enforceable debt or other liability” an essential prerequisite to be fulfilled in case of dishonour of a cheque to attract criminal liability. This...