Penalty.

2[(1) If any member of the Home Guards shall, without lawful excuse, neglect or fail to obey such lawful order or direction as may be given to him for the performance of his duties, he shall be liable upon conviction before a 3[Judicial Magistrate] to imprisonment which may extend to seven years, or to a fine not exceeding one thousand rupees, or to both. 4[(2) No prosecution shall be instituted under sub-section (1) without previous sanction of such officer as may be prescribed in this behalf.]