The Departmental Inquiries (Enforcement of Attendance of Witnesses and Production of Documents) Act, 1972

The Departmental Inquiries Act was enacted in 1972 to regulate the attendance of witnesses and production of documents in departmental inquiries conducted by government officials. The Act allows for the issuance of summons and orders for production of documents to ensure that the inquiry is conducted fairly and without any hindrance. It also provides for the punishment of those who fail to comply with the summons or orders issued under the Act. The Act is applicable to all government officials, except those who are subject to the Army Act, Navy Act, and Air Force Act. The Act is an essential tool for ensuring transparency and accountability in government proceedings.