Under which Article of the Constitution of India, no person can be compelled to be a witness against himself?

The correct answer is Article 20.

Key Points

• Article 20(3) of the Indian Constitution specifically provides that no person accused of any offence shall be compelled to be a witness against himself.
• This is a fundamental right aimed at protecting individuals against self-incrimination.
• The right under Article 20(3) is available only to persons accused of an offence and not to witnesses or others involved in legal proceedings.
• This provision ensures the protection of personal liberty and dignity, preventing coerced confessions.
• The scope of Article 20(3) has been elaborated through various judgments by the Supreme Court of India.

Additional Information

• Article 20
  • Article 20 of the Indian Constitution deals with protection in respect of conviction for offences.
  • It includes three clauses: protection against ex-post facto laws, protection against double jeopardy, and protection against self-incrimination.
• Ex-post facto laws
  • Article 20(1) prohibits the enactment of ex-post facto laws, which means laws that impose penalties retroactively.
• Double jeopardy
  • Article 20(2) ensures that no person shall be prosecuted and punished for the same offence more than once.
• Self-incrimination
  • Article 20(3) specifically protects individuals from being compelled to testify against themselves, ensuring fair treatment under the law.