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    Question

    According to Section 54 of the Bharatiya Sakshya

    Adhiniyam, 2023, which facts may be proved through oral evidence?
    A Only facts that are directly witnessed by the testifying person Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B All facts, with no exceptions whatsoever Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C All facts, except the contents of documents, may be proved by oral evidence Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D Oral evidence cannot prove facts in criminal proceedings; it applies only to civil cases Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    E Facts may be proved by oral evidence only if the testifying person is an expert Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    Section 54 establishes the categorical rule: "All facts, except the contents of documents may be proved by oral evidence." This creates a critical distinction: oral evidence proves  substantive facts  (what happened, when, where, the accused's actions, etc.) but NOT  documentary contents  (what a document states, its exact language). Documentary contents require documentary evidence under Section 56 (primary or secondary evidence). The provision recognizes that oral testimony can establish events and circumstances but lacks reliability for reproducing exact documentary language, necessitating documentary proof.

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