IEA §54 → BSA §49
Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply
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Comparison
3[54. Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply.–– In criminal proceedings, the fact that the accused person has a bad character, is irrelevant, unless evidence has been given that he has a good character, in which case it becomes relevant. Explanation 1.––This section does not apply to cases in which the bad character of any person is itself a fact in issue. Explanation 2. ––A previous conviction is relevant as evidence of bad character.]
49. In criminal proceedings, the fact that the accused has a bad character, is irrelevant, unless evidence has been given that he has a good character, in which case it becomes relevant. Explanation 1.—This section does not apply to cases in which the bad character of any person is itself a fact in issue. Explanation 2.—A previous conviction is relevant as evidence of bad character. Opinion on relationship, when relevant. Grounds of opinion, when relevant. In civil cases character to prove conduct imputed, irrelevant. In criminal cases previous good character relevant. Evidence of character or previous sexual experience not relevant in certain cases. Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply.
What changedAI-inferred
Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply.
Old position
IEA 54 is concerned with Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply. 3[54
New position
BSA 49 preserves the framework with drafting modernisations as required by the new code. Topic: In criminal proceedings, the fact that the accused has a bad character,.. In criminal proceedings, the fact that the accused has a bad character, is irrelevant, unless evidence has been given that he has a good character, in which case it becomes relevant
BSA 49 (In criminal proceedings, the fact that the accused has a bad character,.) preserves the framework of IEA 54. BSA 49 retains the operative provisions in substantively the same form, with drafting modernisation and structural updates as required by the new code. BSA 49 text: In criminal...
Editorial deltaAI-indicated (source-linked)
BSA 49 (In criminal proceedings, the fact that the accused has a bad character,.) preserves the framework of IEA 54. BSA 49 retains the operative provisions in substantively the same form, with drafting modernisation and structural updates as required by the new code.
BSA 49 text: In criminal proceedings, the fact that the accused has a bad character, is irrelevant, unless evidence has been given that he has a good character, in which case it becomes relevant. Explanation 1.—This section does not apply to cases in which the bad character of any person is itself a fact in issue. Explanation 2.—A...
Transitional note (repeal & savings)
For matters initiated before 1 July 2024, IEA 54 continues to apply. For matters from that date forward, BSA 49 applies. The transition is governed by the repeal-and-savings clause in the new code (BNS 358 / BNSS 531 / BSA 170 as the case may be); pending proceedings under the old code carry forward unaffected.
Frequently asked
BSA 49 (In criminal proceedings, the fact that the accused has a bad character,.). The relationship is classified as substantively_same — see the change-note above for the textual delta.
Sources
- India Code — Indian Evidence Act, 1872
- Gazette of India — Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023
Cite this page
Newlaws.in, IEA §54 → BSA §49 Mapping Page, last updated 2026-05-01, accessed 2026-06-15, https://newlaws.in/iea/54.
Compiled using AI-assisted tools · Source-linked · Last updated 2026-05-01
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