State Act

The West Bengal Acquisition And Settlement Of Homestead Land Act, 1969

5. (1) On receipt of an application under section 4 the Collector shall make an inquiry in such manner as may be prescribed to determine whether an occupier has constructed a homestead on the land in his possession and has been residing therein continuously for the period referred to in section 4. (2) Notwithstanding anything contained in section 4, the Collector may, on his own motion, make any inquiry referred to in sub-section (1): Provided that no such inquiry shall be started after the expiry of two years from the date of coming into force of this Act. (3) For the purpose of an inquiry under sub-section (1) the Collector shall have all the powers of a civil court while trying a suit in respect of the following matters, namely:— (a) summoning and enforcing the attendance of any person and examining him on oath; (b) requiring the discovery and production of documents; (c) receiving evidence on affidavits.