Section 1503 in Diplomatic and Consular Officers (Oaths and Fees) Act, 1948
1503.
Object and Reason.- Prior to the passing of the Indian Independence Act, 1947, British diplomatic and consular officers performed notarial duties in respect of Indian nationals aborad and charged fees therefor and for other consular functions for which fees were leviable. They were also auhtorised to adminster oaths. Legal authority for the exercise of these functions existed in the Consular Salaries and Fees Act, 1891, and the Commissioners for Oaths Act, 1889, passed by the English Parliament.On the passing of the Indian Independence Act, 1947. His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom ceased to have any responsibility in the matter. It has therefore become adivsable to provide statutory authority for the fixation, levy and accounting of fees to be charged by Indian diplomatic and consular officers abroad and for the administration of oaths and the taking of affidavits by them in much the same manner as was done by British diplomatic and consular officers prior to the Indian Independence Act, 1947.[3rd September, 1948.]An Act to provide for the administration of oaths by diplomatic and consular officers and to prescribe the fees leviable in respect of certain of their official duties.WHEREAS it is expedient to provide for the administration of oaths by diplomatic and consular officers and for the levy of fees in respect of certain official duties performed by them;It is hereby enacted as follows:-
