BSA § 49 · Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023
Section 49 BSA — Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply
Replaces IEA 54 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872. In force since 1 July 2024.
The 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 previous conviction is relevant as evidence of bad character
Source: India Code (indiacode.gov.in). The Gazette of India is the authoritative text.