An NRI can recover money from a person in India through legal remedies available under Indian law. The appropriate option depends on the nature of the transaction and the available evidence.
First, the NRI should collect documents such as bank-transfer records, loan agreements, invoices, written acknowledgements, emails, messages, or other proof showing that the money was owed. A formal legal notice can then be sent demanding repayment within a specified period.
If the person still does not repay, the NRI may consider filing an appropriate civil recovery suit before the competent court. In cases involving a dishonoured cheque, remedies under the Negotiable Instruments Act may also be available, subject to the applicable requirements and limitation periods. If the money was obtained through deliberate deception or fraud, a criminal complaint may be appropriate based on the facts.
Because limitation periods, jurisdiction, evidence, and the applicable remedy can vary, an NRI should consult an Indian lawyer with the relevant documents before taking action.
