If, at any stage of the proceeding, the Lokayukta— Persons likely to

If at any stage of the proceeding, the Lokayukta— (a) considers it necessary to inquire into the conduct of any person other than the accused; or (b) is of opinion that the reputation of any person other than an accuSed is'iikeiy to be prejudiciaiiy affected by the preliminary inquiry, the. Lokayukta shall give to that person a reasonable opportunity of being heard in the preliminary inquiry and to ' produce evidence in his defence consistent with the ,1 principles of natural justice.