Proceedings in inquiries and appeals.

For the purpose of any inquiry held under section 26, or of any appeal under section 24, the Council shall be deemed to be a court within the meaning of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, and shall exercise powers of a Commissioner appointed under the Public Servants (Inquiries) Act, 1850, and every such inquiry and appeal shall be conducted, as far as may be, in accordance with the provisions of section 5 and sections 8 to 10 of the said Public Servants (Inquiries) Act, 1850.