# The Indian Evidence Act, 1872, Section 54: Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply

- Act: The Indian Evidence Act, 1872 (Act 1 of 1872)
- In force from: 1872-09-01
- Ministry: Ministry of Law and Justice
- Source URL: https://indiacode.ecourtsindia.com/iea/section/54/

## Text

In criminal proceedings, the fact that the accused person 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.]

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