9A. [ Penalty for default. [Section 9A inserted by W.B. Act 18 of 1983. w.e.f. 23.6.1983.]
- If a Pradhan or an Upa-Pradhan or an authority or a person referred to in sub-section (8) [and sub-section (9)] of section 9 fails to comply with the provisions of that sub-section, he shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years or liable to pay fine not exceeding two thousand rupees or both and the offence shall be cognizable:Provided that without prejudice to the foregoing penal provisions such default shall also be construed as a misconduct for which he may be debarred from standing as a candidate in any election in any capacity under this Act for such term as may be determined by the prescribed authority after giving the person concerned an opportunity of being heard and any order debarring him shall be in writing stating the reasons therefor and shall also be published in the Official Gazette.]
