229. Special summons in cases of petty offence.

(1) If, in the opinion of a Magistrate taking cognizance of a petty offence, the case may be summarily disposed of under section 283, the Magistrate shall, except where he is, for reasons to be recorded in writing, of a contrary opinion, issue summons to the accused requiring him to appear before the Court on a specified date, or if he desires to plead guilty to the charge without appearing before the Court, to transmit before the specified date, by registered post or by such electronic means as may be prescribed, the said plea in writing and the amount specified in the summons or such amount as may be determined by the Court.

(2) For the purposes of this section, "petty offence" means any offence punishable only with fine not exceeding five thousand rupees, but does not include any offence so punishable under any law which provides for a minimum term of imprisonment or a minimum amount of fine.