Section 22 - Power of authority to impound documents

Power to impound documents permits retention with approval, copy rights, and mandatory return or authorised release.

Authority may impound books of account or other documents produced in proceedings when retention is deemed necessary; initial retention is up to three months from the Adjudicating Authority's attachment order, extendable with written reasons. If impounded by the Initiating Officer, approval of the Approving Authority must be obtained within fifteen days and for any extension before expiry. Retention cannot exceed thirty days after conclusion of proceedings. The person from whom documents were impounded may obtain copies, and documents must be returned on expiry unless the Approving Authority or Adjudicating Authority permits release to another person.