Expert examination of disputed document age refused where the signature itself was not in issue and the inquiry had limited evidentiary value.

A request under Section 45 of the Indian Evidence Act to send a promissory note for expert opinion on the age of the signature and document was found to have limited evidentiary value because the signature itself was not disputed. The court noted that even if the age of ink or pen could be ascertained, that would not by itself prove the age of the signature or the execution of the document. Such forensic examination may matter in specific situations, but the trial court's refusal to direct it was justified and the revisional order called for no interference.

---

---

Issues: Whether the petitioner was entitled, under Section 45 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, to have the promissory note sent for expert opinion to determine the age of the signature and document.

Analysis: The prayer sought determination of the age of the signature, though the signature itself was not disputed. The requested exercise was found to be of limited evidentiary value because the age of ink or pen, even if ascertainable, would not by itself establish the age of the signature or execution of the document. Such an inquiry may have relevance only in certain forensic situations, and the trial court's refusal was held to be justified.

Conclusion: The application for expert examination was rightly dismissed and no interference with the revisional order was warranted.

---