Bare Acts for AIBE: Must-Have List for All India Bar Exam Preparation
Are you planning to appear for the All India Bar Examination (AIBE)?
If yes, knowing which Bare Acts to carry and study is one of the most important steps for success. In this blog, you’ll find the complete, updated list of essential Bare Acts, tips to use them effectively, and answers to the most common doubts for AIBE aspirants.
What is a Bare Act?
A Bare Act is the exact text of a law passed by the Parliament or State Legislature, without any comments, explanations, or case laws. It is the official version of the law, word for word.
Example:
The Indian Evidence Act, 1872 (Bare Act) only contains the actual sections and language as passed, with no explanations or interpretation.
Why are Bare Acts Important for AIBE?
- The AIBE (All India Bar Exam) is an open book exam conducted by the Bar Council of India.
- Candidates are allowed to bring Bare Acts to the exam hall (but not guides, commentaries, or notes).
- Most AIBE questions are based directly on the wording and sections in Bare Acts.
- Knowing how to quickly refer to relevant sections can save you a lot of time and help you answer accurately.
Official List of Bare Acts Allowed in AIBE
As per the Bar Council of India guidelines, candidates can bring only unannotated and unmarked Bare Acts.
Let’s look at the most important Bare Acts you must carry for AIBE:
Core Bare Acts:
- Constitution of India
- Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC)
- Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (CrPC)
- Indian Evidence Act, 1872
- Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (CPC)
- Law of Contract (Indian Contract Act, 1872)
- Specific Relief Act, 1963
- Limitation Act, 1963
- Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987
- Advocates Act, 1961
- Consumer Protection Act, 2019
- Right to Information Act, 2005
- Family Law Acts (Hindu Marriage Act, Hindu Succession Act, Muslim Law, etc.)
Other Important Bare Acts for AIBE:
- Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881
- Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996
- Intellectual Property Acts (Copyright Act, Trademarks Act, Patents Act)
- Environmental Laws (Environment Protection Act, Water Act, Air Act)
- Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005
- Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015
- SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989
- Motor Vehicles Act, 1988
- Gratuity Act, 1972, and other labor laws
You don’t need every possible Bare Act, but the above list covers almost all subjects from which AIBE questions are asked.
Note:
- Commentaries, diglot editions, notes, question banks, or highlighted Bare Acts are not allowed.
- Only simple, unmarked Bare Acts are permitted.
Where to Get Bare Acts for AIBE?
Printed Bare Acts
- Easily available at local law bookshops or online.
- Prefer pocket-sized editions for convenience.
- Free Downloadable Bare Acts (PDF)
Many websites offer free downloads of Bare Acts in PDF format, for example:
- indiacode.nic.in
- legislative.gov.in
- Bare Acts Section on Hindi Law Shorts
- Hindi Bare Acts
If you are comfortable in Hindi, some Bare Acts are available in Hindi translation.
- Check Hindi Law Shorts Downloads for Hindi versions.
Tips for Using Bare Acts in AIBE
- Familiarize yourself with the index of each Bare Act for quick navigation.
- Use sticky notes or paper bookmarks (if allowed), but avoid underlining or highlighting.
- Practice mock tests using only Bare Acts—don’t rely on commentaries.
- Focus on important sections, definitions, and schedules.
For family law, bring all relevant acts (e.g., Hindu and Muslim Law).
FAQs: Bare Acts and AIBE
Q1: Can I bring a Bare Act with section-wise notes or highlights?
No, only unmarked, unannotated Bare Acts are allowed.
Q2: Are digital Bare Acts (on phone/laptop) permitted?
No, only physical (printed) Bare Acts are allowed in the exam hall.
Q3: What happens if I bring a commentary or guide?
It will not be allowed inside. Only plain Bare Acts can be used.
Q4: How many Bare Acts should I carry?
Carry all core acts and any others from which you expect questions. Around 15–20 should cover the syllabus.
Example: How to Use a Bare Act in the Exam
Sample Question:
“What is the limitation period for filing a suit for recovery of money under a contract?”
- Find the Limitation Act, 1963.
- Use the index to locate the relevant section (usually Schedule I).
- Read the wording to get the correct answer.
Conclusion
Bare Acts are your best friends in AIBE.
The key to success is not just bringing them but knowing how to use them quickly and effectively. Prepare well, carry the right set, and practice referring to them before the exam.
For more tips and AIBE updates, follow us on YouTube – Hindi Law Shorts.
