Proof of facts by oral evidence.
What this section does
All facts, other than the contents of documents, may be proved by oral evidence. This section establishes the general rule that oral evidence is a competent mode of proof for non-documentary facts.
AI-generated plain-language summary. For the binding statutory text, see India Code (official).
The rule in one line
All facts except the contents of documents may be proved by oral evidence.
When it applies
- A witness may orally testify that he saw the accused at the scene of the crime — this is proof of a fact by oral evidence.
- The fact that a payment was made in cash may be proved by the oral testimony of a person who witnessed it, without any document.
- EVIDENCE Section 60 — Oral evidence must be direct
Read the official text
For the binding statutory text of BSA Section 54, refer to the Gazette of India or the India Code official website.
Why this matters
BSA Section 54 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.