CROSSING OF A CHEQUE :

Crossing is an ‘instruction’ given to the paying banker to pay the amount of the cheque through a banker only and not directly to the person presenting it at the counter. A cheque bearing such an instruction is called a ‘crossed cheque’; others without such crossing are ‘open cheques’ which may be encashed at the counter of the paying banker as well. The crossing on a cheque is intended to ensure that its payment is made to the right payee.

Section 123 to 131 of the Negotiable Instruments Act contain provisions relating to crossing. According to Section 131-A, these Sections are also applicable in case of drafts. Thus not only cheques but bank drafts also may be crossed.