Evidence Act → BSA
Evidence Act Section 54 in BSA
Evidence Act Section 54 corresponds to BSA Section 49 under the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023.
| Old provision | Indian Evidence Act, 1872, Section 54 |
|---|---|
| New provision | 49 |
| New Act | Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 |
| Mapping | Mapped |
BSA Section 49 — Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply
Drafting note. No change.
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
Questions this page answers
What is Evidence Act 54 in BSA?
Evidence Act Section 54 is BSA Section 49 — Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply.
Has the provision changed?
No change.
Which law applies to an offence today?
Offences committed on or after 1 July 2024 are dealt with under the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023; earlier offences continue under the Indian Evidence Act, 1872.
Official data, Public source · as of 2026-07-05 · every row this page summarises carries its source, capture date and licence through the API.