Question

According to Section 46 of Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, when is character evidence relevant in civil cases?

• A. Never relevant
• B. Only in criminal cases
• C. Always relevant to prove conduct
• D. Only when related to other relevant fact

Hint:

Character evidence is usually excluded in civil cases unless it directly affects the matter in dispute, such as in defamation or fraud.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the section.
Section 46 of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), 2023, corresponds to Section 52 of the Indian Evidence Act. It specifies the conditions under which character evidence is admissible.
Step 2: Application in civil cases.
In civil cases, the character of a person is generally irrelevant unless the character itself is a fact in issue or is related to another relevant fact (e.g., in defamation cases or matrimonial disputes).
Step 3: Conclusion.
Therefore, character evidence in civil cases is only relevant when it is connected to another relevant fact.