179. In cases of the kind referred to in the last sentence of Rule 176 the previous convictions must be formally proved if they are not admitted. In using them for his limited purpose the Magistrate should be guided by the analogy of Section 30 of the Code. The judgement should be temporarily closed as soon as the conclusion that the accused is guilty has been arrived at therein. The order sheet should then show that the accused has been questioned as to certain previous convictions alleged but not up to that stage admissible in evidence, the actual questions and answers being recorded as an addition to the examination made under Section 342 of the Code. Whether these convictions are admitted or denied the documents constituting legal proof of them shall be filed with the record. Finally the judgement should be completed and finding and sentence recorded.
