Automatic discharge of bankrupt

(1) Notwithstanding anything contained in this Act or any other law, but subject to the provisions of this section, a bankrupt is automatically discharged from bankruptcy after the expiration of five years beginning with the commencement of the bankruptcy. (2) A bankrupt may at any time after the expiration of five years from the commencement of bankruptcy, apply to the Supreme Court for a certificate of discharge and the Court shall, if satisfied that the relevant period has elapsed, issue to him a certificate of discharge, and the date from which such discharge shall be effective shall be the date of the issue of such certificate. (3) An application for an order of discharge under this section may be made ex parte to a Judge in Chambers supported by affidavit showing that the requisite period of five years has elapsed since the commencement of the bankruptcy. (4) An order of discharge under this section shall not release the bankrupt from any debts proved in bankruptcy, but the bankrupt shall not be liable to be adjudged bankrupt again in respect of the same debts. (5) Every certificate of discharge under this section shall be published in the Gazette. (6) On obtaining his certificate of discharge, the bankrupt shall cease to be subject to the various disqualifications and disabilities which he is under as an undischarged bankrupt.