Inquiry officer has powers similar to:

Under the PERA Force Laws, an inquiry officer conducting investigations or inquiries into officer conduct is vested with powers similar to those of a civil court. This means the inquiry officer can summon witnesses, examine documents, and receive evidence in a structured legal manner, just like a civil court does, to ensure that the inquiry is fair, transparent, and thorough.

The inquiry officer’s role is administrative rather than judicial. Unlike criminal courts or magistrates, the officer does not have powers to pass criminal sentences but can enforce compliance with the inquiry process, issue notices, and collect relevant evidence. This framework allows the PERA Act to maintain discipline and accountability within the enforcement system, while giving officers a clear, legally backed mechanism for investigating complaints.

By granting civil court-like powers, the law ensures that inquiries are formal, impartial, and legally sound, protecting both the rights of the officers under investigation and the integrity of the PERA Force. This provision strengthens procedural fairness and builds trust in enforcement administration.