Section 296 in The Code Of Criminal Procedure, 1973
Section 296 of CRPC “Evidence of formal character on affidavit”
(1) The evidence of any person whose evidence is of a formal character may be given by affidavit and may subject to all just exceptions be read in evidence in any inquiry trial or other proceedings under this Code.
(2) The Court may if it thinks fit, and shall on the application of the prosecution or the accused summons and examine any such person as to the facts contained in his affidavit.