BSA 49 — Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply.

Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023

Statutory text

Section 49 in Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023

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.[Similar to Section 54 from Old IEA-Also Refer]

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