Can the CO seek the services as Defence Assistant, of a Government Servant posted in a station other than the place of inquiry as well as the Headquarters of the CO?

4. Can the CO seek the services as Defence Assistant, of a Government Servant posted in a station other than the place of inquiry as well as the Headquarters of the CO? Proviso to Rule 14(8) provides for appointment as Defence Assistant, a Government Servant posted at any other station, if the IO, having regard to the circumstances of the case and for reasons to be recorded in writing, so permits. It is necessary that in either case, whether allowing or rejecting the request of the CO, the order of the IO must be a reasoned order. There is a statutory condition that reasons must be recorded while granting permission to engage a Defence Assistant from out station. Principles of natural justice require that the order rejecting the 112 request of the CO in this regard must be through a speaking one because it affects the prospects of reasonable opportunity of defence