Section 56 BSA: Proof of contents of documents

Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023

Section 56 BSA at a Glance

Section 56 BSA deals with proof of contents of documents. It replaced Section 61 IEA on 1 July 2024.

Was IEA

Section 61 →

Section 56 BSA Bare Act Text

56. Proof of contents of documents

The contents of documents may be proved either by primary or by secondary evidence.

Source: Section 56, Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023

Section 56 BSA in Simple Words

Section 56 of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 states how document contents can be proved from 1 July 2024. Under the Adhiniyam, what a document contains can be proved by primary evidence or through secondary evidence.

Whenever a dispute requires proof of what a document says, Section 56 BSA permits either mode of proof. A party can establish those document contents in court by giving primary evidence or by giving secondary evidence.

The rule deals with proving the contents of documents. It uses permissive language, stating that document contents can be proved through either kind of evidence.

When Section 56 BSA Applies

  • Applies when a party seeks to prove the contents of documents in court.
  • Permits proving document contents through primary evidence.
  • Permits proving document contents through secondary evidence.

Example of Section 56 BSA

In September 2024, Priya files a suit in a Jaipur court over a written supply contract. Priya has to prove the terms written inside that supply contract. Under Section 56 BSA, the contents of the contract can be proved by primary evidence or secondary evidence.

Section 56 BSA in the IEA (Previous Law)

Section 56 BSA replaces Section 61 IEA from the old criminal code.

Section 61 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872 became Section 56 of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 on 1 July 2024 without any change in wording.

FAQs on Section 56 BSA

What is Section 56 BSA?▼

Section 56 of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 is the rule on proving the contents of documents. It states that document contents can be proved either through primary evidence or through secondary evidence.

Does Section 56 BSA allow document contents to be proved by primary or secondary evidence?▼

Yes. Section 56 BSA permits the contents of documents to be proved either through primary evidence or through secondary evidence.

What is Section 56 BSA in IEA?▼

Section 61 IEA. Section 61 IEA became Section 56 BSA on 1 July 2024 without any change in wording.

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Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified advocate for legal advice.

Sources: Bare Act Text, Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 ·