Section 18 of The Murshidabad Estate Administration Act, 1933
Power to order production of accounts, papers, etc., and evidence of title .
- (1)TheCollector of Murshidabad may on the application of the Manager order all persons who are or were in the employ of the estate of the Nawab Bahadur to attend before him; and may order any person to deliver up any accounts, papers or moveable property belonging to the estate or any accounts or papers relating to the immoveable property of the estate or to any other property of the estate which the Manager has reason to believe are in such persons possession or control; and may order all hodlers of tenures or under-tenures on any such property to produce their titles to such tenures or undertenures. (2)Any person who refuses to comply with an order under sub-section (1) may be punished by the Collector of Murshidabad with fine not exceeding five hundred rupees: Provided that an appeal shall lie to the Board of Revenue against any order of fine passed by the Collector under sub-section (2).
Summary
- The Collector of Murshidabad has the power to order current or former estate employees to attend a meeting.
- The Collector can order anyone to hand over accounts, papers, or movable property (like furniture or tools) belonging to the estate.
- People who hold land from the estate (tenures or under-tenures) can be ordered to show their "titles" or proof of ownership.
- Anyone who is fined by the Collector has the right to appeal that fine to the Board of Revenue.
Practical examples
FAQ
1. Who can force me to hand over estate papers?
The Collector of Murshidabad has this power.
2. What if I think the Collector's fine is unfair?
You can appeal the fine to the Board of Revenue.
3. Does this only apply to people currently working for the estate?
No, it applies to persons who "are or were" in the employ of the estate.
4. Can the Collector ask for my personal property?
No, he can only order the delivery of property or papers "belonging to the estate" or relating to the estate's property.
Test yourself
1.Under Section 18 of The Murshidabad Estate Administration Act, 1933, who can order the production of accounts and papers?
2.What is the maximum fine for refusing to comply with an order under Section 18 of The Murshidabad Estate Administration Act, 1933?
3.Under Section 18 of The Murshidabad Estate Administration Act, 1933, who can appeal a fine imposed by the Collector?
4.Under Section 18 of The Murshidabad Estate Administration Act, 1933, what can the Collector order "holders of tenures" to produce?