(1)

On receipt of an application under sub-section (2) of section 20, the Magistrate may make a reception order, if he is satisfied that

(2)

On receipt of an application under sub-section (3) of section 20, the Magistrate shall consider the statements made in the application and the evidence of mental illness as disclosed by the medical certificates.

(3)

If the Magistrate considers that there are sufficient grounds for proceeding further, he shall personally examine the alleged mentally ill person unless, for reasons to be recorded in writing, he thinks that it is not necessary or expedient to do so.

(4)

If the Magistrate is satisfied that a reception order may properly be made forthwith, he may make such order, and if the Magistrate is not so satisfied, he shall fix a date for further consideration of the application and may make such inquiries concerning the alleged mentally ill person as he thinks fit.

(5)

The notice of the date fixed under sub-section (4) shall be given to the applicant and to any other person to whom, in the opinion of the Magistrate, such notice shall be given.

(6)

If the Magistrate fixes a date under sub-section (4) for further consideration of the application, he may make such order as he thinks fit, for the proper care and custody of the alleged mentally ill person pending disposal of the application.

(7)

On the date fixed under sub-section (4), or on such further date as may be fixed by the Magistrate, he shall proceed to consider the application in camera, in the presence of

(8)

If any application is dismissed under sub-section (7), the Magistrate shall record the reasons for such dismissal and a copy of the order shall be furnished to the applicant.

B. Reception Orders on Production of Mentally Ill Persons Before Magistrate