Evidence as to application of language which can apply to one only of several persons.
What this section does
When the language of a document could apply to any one of several persons or things but could not have been meant to apply to more than one, evidence may be given of facts showing which person or thing was intended. This addresses latent ambiguity arising from multiple possible referents.
AI-generated plain-language summary. For the binding statutory text, see India Code (official).
The rule in one line
Where documentary language is ambiguous as between several persons or things (but can apply to only one), extrinsic evidence to identify the intended referent is admissible.
When it applies
- A agrees to sell 'my white horse' and has two white horses — evidence may be given to show which horse was meant.
- A agrees to accompany B to 'Ramgarh' and there are two places of that name — evidence may be given to show which Ramgarh was intended.
Derived from IEA s.96.
Read the official text
For the binding statutory text of BSA Section 99, refer to the Gazette of India or the India Code official website.
Why this matters
BSA Section 99 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.