Power of Magistrate to hear cases in absence of accused

If any person summoned to appear before a Magistrate to answer a charge of an offence punishable under this Act or any rule, or bye-law made thereunder fails to appear at the time and place mentioned in the summons, and if service of summons is proved to the satisfaction of the Magistrate and no sufficient cause is shown for the non-appearance of such person the Magistrate may hear and determine the case in his absence.