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
Evidence Act Section 54 in BSA: Section 49
Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply
Section 54 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872 (Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply) corresponds to Section 49 of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023, in force from 1 July 2024.
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