(1)If at any trial for desertion or absence without leave, over-staying leave or not rejoining when warned for service, the accused person states in his defence any sufficient or reasonable excuse for his unauthorised absence, and refers in support thereof to any officer in the service of the Government, or if it appears that any such officer is likely to prove ordisprove the said statement in the defence, the Court shall address such officer and adjourn the proceedings until his reply is received.
