Section 32(8) of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872 – Several persons expressing feelings:
When the statement was made by a number of persons, and expressed feelings or impressions on their part relevant to the matter in question, such a statement is relevant.
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Illustration:
A sues В for a libel expressed in a painted caricature exposed in a shop window. The question is, as to the similarity of the caricature and its libellous character. The remarks of a crowd of spectators on these points may be proved.
This clause lays down that statements made by a number of persons expressing feelings or impressions relevant to the matter in question are admissible, when such persons are dead or incapable of giving evidence, or whose attendance cannot be secured.
The grounds on which such evidence is admitted are necessity and convenience, as it would be very difficult, if not impossible (in the above Illustrationtration) to produce all the persons forming the crowd. This section may be compared with Section 14, which deals with expression of feelings by an individual.