Section 26. Cognizance of offences

26. Cognizance of offences. —(1) All offences under this Act shall be cognizable under the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898 (5 of 1898), but no action shall be taken in respect of any person for any — offence under this Act except on the basis of a written complaint made 1. Ins. by Act 29 of 1987, s. 5. (w.e.f. 8-9-1987). (a) in respect of contravention of section 8, 14 or 17 or any rule or order made thereunder, by the person authorised to exercise powers of entry and inspection; (b) in respect of any other contravention, by a person duly authorised to make such complaints by the Central Government. (2) Proceedings in respect of contravention of section 18 shall not be instituted except with the consent of the Attorney General of India. — 27. Delegation of powers. The Central Government may, by order, direct that any power conferred or any duty imposed on it by this Act shall, in such circumstances and subject to such conditions as may — be specified in the direction, be exercised or discharged also by - (a) such officer or authority subordinate to the Central Government, or (b) such State Government or such officer or authority subordinate to a State Government as may be specified in the direction.