Under Section 145 of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023, a witness to character may be

A character witness may be cross-examined and then re-examined in accordance with the ordinary framework for witness testimony. Giving evidence about character does not remove those stages, and Section 145 of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 (formerly section 140 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872) expressly confirms both forms of further questioning for this category of witness.

Why not "only examined."? Limiting a character witness to initial examination excludes the further questioning expressly permitted by the provision. Character testimony can be tested by the adverse party and clarified through re-examination, so the word only makes this answer inconsistent with the rule governing such witnesses.

Why not "only re-examined."? Re-examination is not the sole permitted stage for a character witness; it ordinarily follows cross-examination and addresses matters arising there. The provision expressly permits both stages, so selecting only re-examination incorrectly removes the adverse party's opportunity to test the character evidence.

Why not "only cross-examined."? Cross-examination is permitted, but it is not the only form of further questioning available for a character witness. The party who called the witness may also re-examine within the applicable rules, so this restrictive answer leaves out an expressly authorized stage of testimony.