Section 12(k) in The Himachal Pradesh Forest (Settlement) Rules 1965, As Amended By First Amendment Rules 1975
(k)The Forest Settlement Officer shall give reasonable notice to the Divisional Forest Officer of the dates fixed by him for inquiry into claims. If the Divisional Forest Officers is himself unable to attend on those occasions or to depute a suitable representative in his place, he may forward to the Forest Settlement Officer any statement he may wish to make in writing with any documents he may wish to put in. He may in such cases, if he so desires depute a subordinate to explain if necessary, the statement submitted by him. The Forest Settlement Officer shall as far as may be convenient meet the wishes of the Forest Department by adjourning inquiries to give time to consult the conservator or the Chief Conservator.
