BSA · Section 145 · Chapter X — OF EXAMINATION OF WITNESSES

Witnesses to character.

What this section does

Witnesses called solely to speak to a party's character may be subjected to both cross-examination and re-examination, just like any other witness.

AI-generated plain-language summary. For the binding statutory text, see India Code (official).

The rule in one line

Character witnesses are subject to cross-examination and re-examination.

When it applies

A witness called to testify to the accused's good reputation in the community may be cross-examined by the prosecution to test the basis of that opinion.
After cross-examination of a character witness, the calling party may re-examine to clarify any matters raised.

Old-law correspondence

Derived from IEA s.140.

Read the official text

For the binding statutory text of BSA Section 145, refer to the Gazette of India or the India Code official website.

Why this matters

BSA Section 145 forms part of Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam which replaced the Indian Evidence Act 1872 on 1 July 2024. Any new filing, FIR, charge sheet, or bail application made on or after that date should cite the new section number. References to the old act in legacy documents remain valid for matters that arose before the changeover.