It is mandatory for both the Complainant and the Accused to be present before the Hon'ble Court on all the dates fixed by the said Court. Though the PO may dispense the presence upon exercising its discretion if it seems fit and proper in the circumstances of the case in hand. It is the discretion of the court but you may file an application seeking exemption from the court stating your bonafide reasons.
One has to see the order of stay passed by the Hon'ble High Court in order to ascertain whether the proceedings before the Ld.Judge at the Lower Court is covered entirely or not or to what extent it covers. Without looking into the order it is difficult to suggest you whether the Ld. Lower Court judge is exercising its discretion appropriately or not.