Section 243 - Exclusion of evidence on grounds of public interest.

(1) A Minister, or in respect of matters to which the executive authority of a State extends, the Governor or any person nominated by him, may in any proceeding object to the production of documents or request the exclusion of oral evidence when after consideration he is satisfied that the production of such document or the giving of such oral evidence is against public interest.

(2) Any objection mentioned in subsection (1) of this section shall, if taken-

(a) before trial, be by affidavit; or

(b) at the hearing, be by certificate produced by a public officer.

(3) The court shall have a discretion whether or not to uphold any such objection, and may in determining how to exercise its discretion, inspect such documents or be informed as to the nature of the oral evidence to which the objection relates.