Power of Government to control moving of sculptures, carvings or like objects.

(1) If 4[the Government] consider that any sculptures, carvings, images, bas-reliefs, inscriptions or other like objects ought not to be moved from the place where they are without the sanction of the Government, 4[the Government] may, by notification in the Government Gazette, direct that any such object or any class of such objects shall not be moved unless with the written permission of the 5[Director, Archaeology]. (2) A person applying for the permission mentioned in sub-section (1) shall specify the object or objects which he proposes to move, and shall furnish, in regard to such object or objects, any information which the 5[Director, Archaeology] may require. (3) If the 5[Director, Archaeology] refuses to grant such permission, the applicant may appeal to the Minister, whose decision shall be final. (4) Any person who moves any object in contravention of a notification issued under sub-section (1), shall be punishable with fine which may extend to 1[twenty thousand rupees or with imprisonment which may extend to three months or both]. (5) If the owner of any property proves to the satisfaction of 2[the Government] that he has suffered any loss or damage by reason of the inclusion of such property in a notification published under sub-section (1), 2[the Government] shall either–– (a) exempt such property from the said notification ; (b) purchase such property, if it be movable, at its market value ; or (c) pay compensation for any loss or damage sustained by the owner of such property, if it be immovable.