Section 54 of IEA : Section 54: Previous Bad Character Not Relevant, Except In Reply

Explanation using Example

Imagine a scenario where John is on trial for theft. During the trial, the prosecution cannot introduce evidence that John was previously arrested for fighting to prove that he is likely to commit theft, as this would be considered evidence of bad character and is irrelevant under Section 54 of The Indian Evidence Act, 1872.

However, if John's defense team presents evidence suggesting that John has a reputation for honesty and has never stolen before, then the prosecution may introduce evidence of John's past arrest to counter the claim of good character.