Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023
Section 332
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 proceeding under this Sanhita.
(2) The Court may, if it thinks fit, and shall, on the application of the prosecution or the accused, summon and examine any such person as to the facts contained in his affidavit.
Why this exists
This provision, from Section 296 of the old CrPC, saves court time on non-controversial, procedural facts, such as confirming that a document was received or a process was properly followed, by allowing sworn written statements instead of requiring everyone involved to testify in person.