Which Section of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872 deals only with civil matters?

Solution (By Examveda Team)

Definition of Civil Matters under the Indian Evidence Act, 1872:
Civil matters refer to legal disputes between individuals or organizations regarding rights, obligations, and liabilities, as opposed to criminal matters which deal with offenses against the state.

Explanation of the Correct Answer:
The correct answer is Option A: Section 23.

Section 23 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872:
Section 23 specifically deals with admissions in civil cases. It states that in civil cases, an admission cannot be used as evidence if it was made under an agreement that it would not be given as evidence, or if it was made with the express or implied condition that it should not be disclosed.

Purpose of Section 23:
This provision is intended to protect parties from having their settlement discussions or private agreements used against them in court. It encourages dispute resolution without fear of repercussions in future litigation.

Example:
If two parties to a contract dispute negotiate privately and one party admits fault, this admission cannot be used in court if it was made under an agreement that such statements would remain confidential.

Explanation of Other Options:
Option B: Section 27 – Incorrect. Section 27 deals with the admissibility of confessions made by an accused in police custody, which is relevant in criminal cases, not civil matters.

Option C: Section 53 – Incorrect. Section 53 pertains to character evidence in criminal proceedings, stating that the good character of an accused is relevant in criminal trials but not in civil matters.

Option D: Section 133 – Incorrect. Section 133 relates to the testimony of an accomplice in criminal cases and does not pertain to civil matters.

Thus, the correct answer is Option A: Section 23, as it exclusively deals with admissions in civil cases.