Katchahry or a bench thereof without the consent of contesting parties and permission of Gram Katchahry or the bench thereof.

Appearance in person or by representatives - (1) Subject to the provisions of section 116 any party to a suit may appear before a bench of the Gram Katchahry either in person or by such personal relation, friend or any other person duly authorised by him as the bench may admit as a fit person to represent him.

1. (2) Whenever the Sarpanch issues a summons in a case, he may, for reasons to be recorded in writing, dispense with the personal attendance of the accused and, subject to the provisions of section 116 permit him to appear by his personal relation, friend or any other person duly authorised by him : Provided that the bench enquiring into or trying the case may at any stage of the proceedings direct the personal attendance in the prescribed manner.
2. (3) Subject to the provisions of section 116, a bench enquiring into or trying a case may at any stage of the proceedings, for reasons to be recorded in writing :-
   • (i) direct the personal attendance of the accused, and if necessary, enforce such attendance in the prescribed manner or;
3. (4) permit such accused persons to be represented by his personal relations, friend or any other person duly authorised by him.