Provided that where any document is required to be returned, the Lokayukta or the authorised officer may return the same after retaining copies of such document duly authenticated.

Lokayukta to have powers of civil court in certain cases

1. (1) Subject to the provisions of this section, for the purpose of any preliminary inquiry, the Inquiry Wing of the Lokayukta shall have all the powers of a Civil Court, under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, while trying a suit in respect of the following matters, namely: -
   • (i) summoning and enforcing the attendance of any person and examining him on oath;
   • (ii) requiring the discovery and production of any document;
   • (iii) receiving evidence on affidavits;
   • (iv) requisitioning any public record or copy thereof from any court or office;
   • (v) issuing commissions for the examination of witnesses or documents: Provided that such commission, in case of a witness, shall be issued only where the witness, in the opinion of the Lokayukta, is not in a position to attend the proceeding before the Lokayukta; and
   • (vi) such other matters as may be prescribed.
2. (2) Any proceeding before the Lokayukta shall be deemed to be a judicial proceeding within the meaning of section 193 of the Indian Penal Code.