What evidence to be given when statement forms part of a conversation, document, electronic record, book or series of letters or papers.

What this section does

When a statement offered in evidence forms part of a longer statement, conversation, document, electronic record, book, or series of letters or papers, only so much of the larger context shall be given in evidence as the court considers necessary to fully understand the nature, effect, and circumstances of the statement. The court controls the extent of the context to be proved.

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

The rule in one line

Only the portion of a larger statement, document, or electronic record necessary for full understanding of the relevant statement need be proved.

When it applies

• A party seeks to rely on one sentence from a lengthy letter — the court may require the surrounding paragraphs to be read if necessary to understand the statement's meaning.
• A portion of an electronic record is tendered — the court may direct that related portions of the same record be produced to give full context.

Derived from IEA s.39.