https://sclaw.in/2023/08/17/civil-procedure-code-1908-cpc-order-17-rule-2-procedure-if-parties-fail-to-appear-on-day-fixed-where-the-evidence-or-a-substantial-portion-of-the-evidence-of-any-party-has-already-been-record/
Civil Procedure Code, 1908 (CPC) - Order 17 Rule 2 - Procedure if parties fail to appear on day fixed - Where the evidence or a substantial portion of the evidence of any party has already been recorded and such party fails to appear on any day to which the hearing of the suit is adjourned, the Court would be at liberty to proceed with the case as if such party were present