(1.) The short question involved in the instant acquittal appeal is with regard to the right of the appellant/complainant in proceeding with the appeal challenging the order of acquittal of the respondent/accused under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881 after the death of the accused during the pendency of the appeal.
(2.) The aforesaid question arises in the following factual backdrop :-
(3.) Heard on I.A. No. 1/2021, application under Section 394 of CrPC for abatement of appeal filed by the legal representatives of the respondent/accused and I.A. No. 2/2021, application for bringing the legal representatives of deceased respondent/accused on record filed by the appellant/complainant.