Excavations for archaeological or historical purposes

(1) An archaeological officer or an officer authorised by him in this behalf or any person holding a license granted in this behalf in the prescribed manner under this Act (hereinafter referred to as the licensee) may, after giving notice in writing to the Collector and the owner, enter upon and make excavations in any protected area. (2) Where an archaeological officer has reason to believe that any area not being a protected area contains ruins or relics of historical or archaeological importance, he or an officer authorised by him in this behalf may, after giving notice in writing to the Collector and the owner, enter upon and make excavations in the area.