The CrPC 1973 was replaced by the BNSS 2023 (in force 2024-07-01); no verified section mapping on file for Section 291 — confirm the corresponding provision (savings: Section 531, BNSS 2023).
(1) The deposition of a civil surgeon or other medical witness, taken and attested by a Magistrate in the presence of the accused, or taken on commission under this Chapter, may be given in evidence in any inquiry, trial or other proceeding under this Code, although the deponent is not called as a witness. (2) The Court may, if it thinks fit, and shall, on the application of the prosecution or the accused, summon and examine any such deponent as to the subject-matter of his deposition.