(1)[Subject to the provisions of section 32-A, every person] [These words were substituted for the words 'Every person' by Maharashtra 16 of 1979, Section (8), (w.e.f. 4.7.1980).] having by law or consent of parties authority to receive evidence and every person in charge of a public office, except an officer of police [or any other officer, empowered by law to investigate offences under any law for the time being in force,] [These words were inserted by Maharashtra 27 of 1985, Section 20 (a) (i), (w.e.f. 10-12-1985).] before whom any instrument chargeable, in his opinion, with duty, is produced or comes in the performance of his functions shall, if it appears to him that such instrument is not duly stamped, impound the same [irrespective whether the instrument is or is not valid in law.] [These words were added by Maharashtra 27 of 1985, Section 20 (a) (ii), (w.e.f. 10-12-1985).]
