IEA 151 to BSA 154: Indecent and scandalous questions
Section 151 IEA (1872) replaced by Section 154 BSA (2023)
IEA 151 to BSA 154 at a Glance
Section 151 IEA (Indecent and scandalous questions) is now Section 154 BSA, in force from 1 July 2024. Only the section number changed.
What Changed From IEA 151 to BSA 154?
Section 151 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872 became Section 154 of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 on 1 July 2024 without any change in wording.
IEA 151 vs BSA 154: Comparison Table
| Aspect | IEA 1872 (repealed) | BSA 2023 (in force) |
|---|---|---|
| Section | 151 | 154 |
| Heading | Indecent and scandalous questions | Same |
IEA 151 and BSA 154: Bare Act Text Side by Side
IEA 1872 (repealed)
Section 151, IEA 1872
151. Indecent and scandalous questions.—The Court may forbid any questions or inquiries which it regards as indecent or scandalous, although such questions or inquiries may have some bearing on the questions before the Court, unless they relate to facts in issue, or to matters necessary to be known in order to determine whether or not the facts in issue existed.
BSA 2023 (in force)
Section 154, BSA 2023
154. Indecent and scandalous questions.—The Court may forbid any questions or inquiries which it regards as indecent or scandalous, although such questions or inquiries may have some bearing on the questions before the Court, unless they relate to facts in issue, or to matters necessary to be known in order to determine whether or not the facts in issue existed.
When It Applies: IEA 151 vs BSA 154
Under IEA 151
- A question or inquiry is put in court that the court considers offensive or shameful.
- The court may disallow the question or inquiry.
- This power applies even though the question or inquiry has some link to the issues before the court.
Under BSA 154
- A question or inquiry is put in court that the court regards as offensive or shameful.
- The court may disallow the question or inquiry.
- This power applies even when the question or inquiry has some connection to the matters before the court.
What IEA 151 to BSA 154 Means in Practice
Section 151 IEA became Section 154 BSA on 1 July 2024 without any change in wording. The same rule applies, and a party or advocate should cite Section 154 BSA for matters governed by the BSA.
Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only. The new criminal laws came into effect on 1 July 2024. Consult a qualified advocate for legal advice.
Sources: Indian Evidence Act, 1872 · Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 ·