Section 21. Special Police Officers.

(1) The Commissioner, the 1[Superintendent], or any Magistrate, 2* * * * * specially empowered in this behalf by the State Government, may at any time by a written order signed by himself and sealed, with his own seal appoint any able-bodied male person between the ages of 18 and 50, whom he considers fit to be a Special Police Officer to assist the Police Force on any occasion, when he has reason to apprehend the occurrence of any riot or grave disturbance of the peace within the limits of his charge and he is of opinion that the ordinary Police Force is not sufficient for the protection of the inhabitants and for the security of property. (2) Every Special Police officer so appointed shall on appointment- (a) receive a certificate in a form approved by the State Government in this behalf, (b) have the same powers, privileges and immunities and be liable to the same duties and responsibilities and be subject to the same authorities as an ordinary Police Officer.