Comparison of signature, writing or seal with others admitted or proved.
What this section does
To determine whether a signature, writing, or seal is genuine, the court may compare it with any admitted or proved specimen of that person's handwriting or seal, even if the specimen was not produced for any other purpose. The court may also direct a person present in court to write words or figures for comparison purposes. The section applies equally to finger impressions.
AI-generated plain-language summary. For the binding statutory text, see India Code (official).
The rule in one line
Courts may order comparison of disputed signatures, writings, seals, or finger impressions with admitted or proved specimens to ascertain genuineness.
When it applies
- In a forgery case, the court compares the accused's admitted signature on a bank form with the disputed signature on a cheque to determine authenticity.
- A court directs a party present in court to write certain words so that the handwriting can be compared with a disputed document alleged to have been written by that party.
Practitioner note
The Supreme Court in Fakhruddin v. State of M.P. (1967) held that handwriting comparison under this section is permissible but the court must exercise caution; expert opinion and judicial comparison are both valid methods.
Derived from IEA s.73.
Read the official text
For the binding statutory text of BSA Section 72, refer to the Gazette of India or the India Code official website.
Why this matters
BSA Section 72 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.