The Indian rupee fell by 16 paise to 45 rupees per US dollar in early trade on the Interbank Foreign Exchange today. The rupee resumed lower at 44 rupees 97 paise per dollar as against the previous closing level of 44 rupees 84 paise and moved down further to 45 rupees per dollar. The rupee moved in a range between 44 rupees 88 paise and 45 rupees per dollar in morning deals. Forex dealers said the dollar's strength against major currencies overseas and a weak start in the stock market put pressure on the rupee.