es, you can seek interim compensation while your Section 138 Negotiable Instruments Act case is pending before the court. Section 143A of the NI Act empowers the court to order the drawer (defendant) to pay interim compensation to the complainant (you), provided the accused has pleaded not guilty in a summary or summons case, or upon framing of charge in other cases. The interim compensation cannot exceed 20% of the cheque amount and must be paid within 60 days from the order (extendable by 30 days for valid reasons). If the accused is later acquitted, you must repay the compensation with interest.