(1) Every instrument chargeable with duty executed only out of 2 [India], and not being a bill of exchange 2*** or promissory note, may be stamped within three months after it has been first received in 1 [India].
(2) Where any such instrument cannot, with reference to the description of stamp prescribed therefore, be duly stamped by a private person, it may be taken within the said period of three months to the Collector, who shall stamp the same, in such manner as the 1 [State Government] may by rule prescribe, with a stamp of such value as the person so taking such instrument may require and pay for.
1Subs. by Act 43 of 1955, s. 2, for “the States” (w.e.f. 1-4-1956).
2The word “cheque” omitted by Act 5 of 1927, s. 5.