Hearsay Evidence
A statement made out of court, offered to prove the truth of what it asserts, generally inadmissible.
In Simple Terms
"I heard that X said Y" — generally not allowed as proof of Y, only direct, first-hand evidence is.
Detailed Legal Meaning
Hearsay evidence is testimony about a statement made by someone other than the witness, offered to prove the truth of the matter asserted. Indian evidence law's general rule that oral evidence must be direct excludes hearsay, subject to well-defined exceptions such as dying declarations and certain admissions.
Relevant Acts & Sections
- Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023Search on India Code ↗
- Indian Evidence Act, 1872 (predecessor provision)Search on India Code ↗
Common Court Usage
Objected to at the time such testimony is sought to be led during examination-in-chief.