Provided that no order under this section shall be made unless the person concerned has been given a reasonable opportunity of being heard.

Procedure in inquiries relating to misconduct Procedure in inquiries relating to misconduct.

1. (1) For the purpose of any inquiry under section 14, the Council may, either of its own motion or on a complaint received from any person, hold an inquiry.
2. (2) The Council shall follow such procedure as may be prescribed for any inquiry under sub-section (1), and shall give the Professional Civil Engineer a reasonable opportunity of being heard in person or through a legal practitioner.
3. (3) The Council shall have the same powers as are vested in a civil court under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (5 of 1908), while trying a suit in respect of the following matters, namely:—
   • (a) summoning and enforcing the attendance of any person and examining him on oath;
   • (b) requiring the discovery and production of documents;
   • (c) receiving evidence on affidavit;
   • (d) issuing commissions for the examination of witnesses or documents.
4. (4) Every inquiry under this section shall be deemed to be a judicial proceeding within the meaning of sections 193 and 228 of the Indian Penal Code (45 of 1860).