Persons likely to be prejudicially Affected to be heard

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 likely to be prejudicially affected by the preliminary inquiry, it 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 principles of natural justice.