Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply
Full 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.
Plain English Summary
In criminal cases, the accused's bad character is irrelevant unless they first offer evidence of their good character, or if character is a direct fact in issue.
Key Legal Elements
- Bad character generally irrelevant in criminal cases
- Becomes relevant in reply to good character evidence
- Exception: When character is a fact in issue
- Previous conviction counts as bad character evidence
Practical Note
This rule protects the accused from prejudice based on their past, ensuring they are tried for the specific crime alleged, not for their general disposition.
हिंदी पाठ
आपराधिक कार्यवाहियों में यह तथ्य कि अभियुक्त का चरित्र बुरा है, विसंगत है, जब तक कि इस बात का साक्ष्य न दिया गया हो कि उसका चरित्र अच्छा है, ऐसी स्थिति में यह सुसंगत हो जाता है।
स्पष्टीकरण 1—यह धारा उन मामलों पर लागू नहीं होती जिनमें किसी व्यक्ति का बुरा चरित्र स्वयं एक विवाद्यक तथ्य है।
स्पष्टीकरण 2—पिछली दोषसिद्धि बुरे चरित्र के साक्ष्य के रूप में सुसंगत है।