Powers of the Appellate Authority in relation to the conducting of enquiry under this Act

(1) The Appellate Authority shall, while conducting an enquiry, have all the powers of a Civil Court while trying a suit under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (Central Act 15 of 1908), in respect of the following matters, namely:— (a) summoning and enforcing the attendance of witnesses; (b) requiring to find out and to produce any document; (c) requisitioning any public record from any court or office; (d) receiving evidence on affidavits; (e) appointing commission for the examination of witnesses or documents.

(2) The Appellate Authority shall, while exercising any of the powers under this Act, be deemed to be a Civil Court for the purpose of sections 345 and 346 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (Central Act 2 of 1974).