17Investigation to be deemed a judicial proceeding.

Everyinvestigation conducted by the Manager with reference to any claim preferred before him under this Act, or to any matter connected with such claim, shall be deemed to be a judicial proceeding within the meaning of the Indian Penal Code (45 of 1860); and everystatement made by any person examined by or before the Manager with reference to any such investigation, whether upon oath or otherwise, shall be deemed to be evidence within the meaning of the said Code.