(1) For the purpose of ascertaining the character of any performance conducted or about to be conducted, the Government, or such officer as they may empower in this behalf, may, by order, require the organizers or other principal persons responsible for the conduct of, or the persons who took part in or are about to take part in, such performance, or the owner or occupier or any person having the use of the place in which it was conducted or is about to be conducted, to furnish such information as may be specified in such order.
(2) Every person so required shall be bound to furnish the information to the best of his knowledge and ability within the time specified in such order and in case of failure to comply with such order shall be deemed to have committed an offence under section 176 of the Indian Penal Code (Central Act 45 of 1860).