Correct option is D
The correct matching is as follows:
· (A) Electronic Records is matched with Section 22A: Section 22A of the Indian Evidence Act deals with the relevancy of oral evidence regarding the contents of electronic records.
· (B) Opinion as to digital signature is matched with Section 47A: Section 47A allows the court to consider the opinion of a certifying authority as evidence regarding the authenticity of a digital signature.
· (C) Proof as to digital signature is matched with Section 67A: Section 67A specifies the procedure for proving the authenticity of a digital signature, similar to the way handwriting or a signature is proved under the Evidence Act.
· (D) Presumption as to digital messages is matched with Section 88A: Section 88A provides a legal presumption that electronic messages sent through electronic means are authentic unless proven otherwise.
Information Booster:
· Section 22A – Electronic Records: Section 22A is a crucial addition to the Indian Evidence Act, recognizing the relevance of electronic records in legal proceedings. This section ensures that oral evidence about the contents of an electronic record is admissible in court, provided that the original or a certified copy of the electronic record is produced.
· Section 47A – Opinion as to Digital Signature: This section empowers the court to accept the opinion of a certifying authority regarding the validity of a digital signature. Given the technical nature of digital signatures, the law allows expert opinions to be considered as evidence, helping the court to determine the authenticity of the digital signature.
· Section 67A – Proof as to Digital Signature: Under this section, the procedure for proving a digital signature is similar to proving a handwritten signature. The law requires that the digital signature be verified to establish its authenticity, which is crucial in cases where digital documents are submitted as evidence.
· Section 88A – Presumption as to Digital Messages: This section introduces a presumption regarding electronic messages. It presumes that the messages are authentic and sent by the originator unless the contrary is proved. This provision is significant in the digital age, where electronic communication is common and often forms the basis of legal disputes.
Additional Knowledge:
1. Relevance of Electronic Records (Section 22A): As electronic records become increasingly prevalent in both personal and professional transactions, the law has adapted to include these as admissible evidence. This section ensures that courts can consider the contents of electronic records without requiring a physical document, provided that the evidence is appropriately certified.
2. Role of Certifying Authorities (Section 47A): Certifying authorities play a critical role in the legal validation of digital signatures. They are responsible for issuing digital certificates, which are used to verify the identity of the signatory. Section 47A recognizes the authority of these certifications and allows the court to rely on them as expert evidence.
3. Digital Signatures as Evidence (Section 67A): With the rise of electronic contracts and digital communication, proving the authenticity of a digital signature has become essential. Section 67A establishes the method by which a digital signature can be verified in court, ensuring that electronic documents are given the same legal standing as physical documents.
4. Presumptions about Electronic Messages (Section 88A): In legal disputes, electronic messages often serve as critical evidence. Section 88A provides a presumption of authenticity for these messages, simplifying the process of admitting them as evidence. However, this presumption is rebuttable, meaning that it can be challenged if there is evidence to suggest that the message is not authentic.
