IEA 102 — On whom burden of proof lies

Indian Evidence Act, 1872

Statutory text

The  burden  of  proof  in  a  suit  or  proceeding  lies  on  that person who would fail if no evidence at all were given on either side.
Illustrations
(a) A sues B for land of  which B is in possession, and  which, as A asserts,  was left to A by the  will of C, B’s father.
If no evidence were given on either side, B would be entitled to retain his possession.
Therefore the burden of proof is on A.
(b) A sues B for money due on a bond.
The execution of the bond is admitted, but B says that it was obtained by fraud, which A denies.
If  no  evidence  were  given  on  either  side,  A  would  succeed,  as  the  bond  is  not  disputed  and  the  fraud  is  not proved.
Therefore the burden of proof is on B.

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