Power to refer to Chief Court questions as to jurisdiction

(1) If the presiding officer of a Civil or Revenue Court in which a suit has been instituted doubts whether he is precluded from taking cognizance of the suit, he may refer the matter through the Divisional Judge or Commissioner, or, if he is a Divisional Judge or Commissioner, directly to the Chief Court. (2) On any such reference being made the Chief Court may order the presiding officer either to proceed with the suit or to return the plaint for presentation in such other Court as it may in its order declare to be competent to take cognizance of the suit. (3) The order of the Chief Court on any such reference shall be conclusive as against persons who are not parties to the suit as well as against persons who are parties thereto.