Bankers’ Books Evidence Bill 2026: replaces 1891 Act
Why in the news
Lok Sabha cleared a Bill by voice vote, amid Opposition protests, to modernise how bank records count as court evidence.
Key facts
- Bankers’ Books Evidence Bill, 2026: introduced by the Finance Minister on 3 August 2026; replaces the colonial-era 1891 Act.
- Certified physical or electronic extracts can go before a court; originals and routine witness summons are not needed.
- Wider definition: electronic, digital, virtual and cloud databases count as bankers’ books.
- Electronic record tests: accurate data, no unauthorised alteration, no tampering.
- Technical certificate describing the computer system, signed manually or digitally by designated branch or office heads.
- No forced attendance of bank officers when the bank is not a party, unless a judge orders it for a strictly defined special cause.
- Extension power: the Centre can cover other financial institutions through notification.
Aims
- Fit evidence law to digital banking, speed up financial disputes, ease the load on bank staff.
Exam angle
- Replaces the 1891 Act. Passed by Lok Sabha, voice vote.
- Keywords: technology-neutral, technical certificate.