(1) When, in any case tried by him, the Ma~istrate decides that anything liable to confiscation under section 54, he may either order confiscation or give the owner of such thing an option to pay, in lieu of confiscation, such fine as the Magistrate think fit :
Provided that the Magistrate shall in all cases order confiscation of the intoxicant decided by him to be liable to confiscation under section 54.
Penalty for contempt of court.
Penalty for attempt to Commit offence.
Enhanced punishment After previous conviction.
What things are liable to confiscation.
Confiscation by the Judicial magistrate or collector.
(2) Whenever anything is liable to confiscation under section 54, and the offender or the person entitled to possession is not known or cannot be found, the case shall be inquired into and determined by the Collector, who may order confiscation :
Provided that no such order shall be made until the expiration of two months from the date of seizing the thing intended to be confiscated, or without hearing any person who may claim any right thereto and the evidence (if any), which he produces in support of his claim:
Provided further, that if the thing in question is liable to speedy and natural decay, or if the Collector is of opinion that its sale would be for the benefit of the owner, the Collector may at any time direct it to be sold ; and the provisions of this sub-section shall, as nearly as may be practicable, apply to the net proceeds of the sale.