26. Search and Seizure of Documents, Articles and Retention thereof.
(1)If the Lokayukta has reason to believe that any document or articles as the case may be which, in its opinion, shall be useful for, or relevant to, any investigation under this Act, are secreted in any place, it may authorise any agency to whom the investigation has been given to search for and to seize such documents/ articles as per the provision of Cr Pc.(2)If the Lokayukta is satisfied that any document or article seized under sub-section (1) may be used as evidence for the purpose of any preliminary inquiry or investigation or trial under this Act and that it shall be necessary to retain the document or article in its custody or in the custody of such officer as may be authorised, it may so retain or direct such authorised officer to retain such document or article till the completion of such preliminary inquiry or investigation or trial.Provided that where any document or article is required to be returned, the Lokayukta or the authorised officer may return the same after retaining copies of such document or seized article duly authenticated.
