Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881
89. Payment of instrument on which alteration is not
apparent
Where a promissory note, bill of exchange or cheque has been
materially altered but does not appear to have been so altered, or where a cheque
is presented for payment which does not at the time of presentation appear to
be crossed or to have had a crossing which has been obliterated, payment
thereof by a person or banker liable to pay, and paying the same according to
the apparent tenor thereof at the time of payment and otherwise in due course,
shall discharge such a person or banker from all liability thereon, and such
payment shall not be questioned by reason of the instrument having been
altered, or the cheque crossed.