Inquiry by Forest Officer into claims for kudivila

(1) When a claim has been preferred as required by section 40-J the Forest Officer empowered in that behalf shall inquire into such claims recording all statements and the evidence in the manner prescribed by the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (Central Act V of 1908) in appeal able cases. (2) When no such claim has been preferred as required in section 40-J the inquiry shall be conducted ex-parte. (3) For the purpose of such inquiry the Forest Officer aforesaid may exercise all the powers of Civil Court in the trial of suits.