Cr.P.C Section148

Local inquiry.

(1) Whenever a local inquiry is necessary for the purposes of this Chapter, any [a Sessions Judge] may depute any Magistrate subordinate to him to make the inquiry, and may furnish him with such written instructions as may seem necessary for his guidance, and may declare by whom the whole or any part of the necessary expenses of the inquiry shall be paid.

(2) The report of the person so deputed may be read as evidence in the case.

(3) Order as to costs. When any costs have been incurred by any party to a proceeding under this Chapter [----] the Magistrate passing a decision under section 145, section 146 or section 147 may direct by whom such costs shall be paid, whether by such party or by any other party to the proceeding, and whether in whole or in part or proportion. 3[Such costs may include any expenses incurred in respect of witnesses, and of pleaders’ fees, which the Court may consider reasonable.