Code of Criminal Procedure Act, 1973
296.Evidence of formal character on affidavit.-
(1) The evidence of any person whose evidence
is of a formal character may be given by affidavit and may, subject to all just
exceptions, be read in evidence in any inquiry, trial or other proceeding under
this Code.
(2) The Court may, if it thinks fit, and shall, on the application of the
prosecution or the accused, summon and examine any such person as to the facts
contained in his affidavit.