(I) If any person to whom this section Breaches of official

applies is without reasonable cause guilty of any act duty in connection or omission in breach of his official duty, he shall on with elections. conviction, be punished with fine which may extend to five hundred rupees.

1. (2) An offence under sub-section (1 )shall be cognizable.
2. (3) No suit of other legal proceeding shall lie against any such person for damages in respect of such act or omission as aforesaid.
3. (4) The person to whom this section applies are the returning officers, presiding officers, polling officers and any other person appointed to perform any duty in connection with the receipt or nominations or withdrawal of candidatures or the recording or counting of votes at an election ; and the expression "official duty" shall for the purpose of this section be construed accordingly, but shall not include duties imposed: otherwise than by or under this Act.