(1.) Leave granted.
(2.) Despite services of notice, none appears on behalf of the respondents.
(3.) By impugned judgment and order dated 27-11-2000 the High Court of Madras allowed Criminal O.P. No. 14007 of 1999 and quashed the proceedings under S. 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881 (hereinafter referred to as "the Act") on the ground that there was breach of mandatory provision in issuing the notice as the cheque was returned on 13th January, 1994 and complainant issued notice on 29th January, 1994, which fell outside the period of 15 days.