Section 276: Failure to plead due to malice or otherwise

(1) Where the defendant, when called upon to plead remains silent or refuses to answer, the court shall enter a plea of not guilty on his behalf.
(2) A plea entered under subsection (1) of this section shall have the same effect as if the defendant actually pleaded to the charge.
(3) The court may inquire into the mental state of the defendant, and if the court is satisfied that the defendant is of sound mind, the court shall proceed with his trialThe court may inquire into the mental state of the defendant, and if the court is satisfied that the defendant is of sound mind, the court shall proceed with his trial.
(4) Where the court finds that the defendant is of unsound mind, the provisions of this Act in relation to persons of unsound mind shall apply.