Questions lawful in cross-examination
Chapter 10: Of examination of witnesses
When a witness is cross-examined, he may, in addition to the questions hereinbefore referred to, be asked any questions which tend—
(a) to test his veracity; or
(b) to discover who he is and what is his position in life; or
(c) to shake his credit, by injuring his character, although the answer to such questions might tend directly or indirectly to criminate him, or might expose or tend directly or indirectly to expose him to a penalty or forfeiture:
Provided that in a prosecution for an offence under section 64, section 65, section 66, section 67, section 68, section 69, section 70 or section 71 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 or for attempt to commit any such offence, where the question of consent is an issue, it shall not be permissible to adduce evidence or to put questions in the cross-examination of the victim as to the general immoral character, or previous sexual experience, of such victim with any person for proving such consent or the quality of consent.
The Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 (Act No. 47 of 2023). As printed in the Gazette on 25 December 2023. Later amendments, if any, are not included.
Related sections
- 146Leading questionsEvidence Act 141
- 147Evidence as to matters in writingEvidence Act 144
- 148Cross-examination as to previous statements in writingEvidence Act 145
- 150When witness to be compelled to answerEvidence Act 147
- 151Court to decide when question shall be asked and when witness compelled to answerEvidence Act 148
- 152Question not to be asked without reasonable groundsEvidence Act 149