Relevance: GS-2 (Fundamental Rights, Judiciary); Source: The Hindu & SC judgments

The Story So Far

The Supreme Court reiterated that Narco-analysis, polygraph and brain-mapping cannot be conducted without informed consent, emphasizing constitutional protections after recent investigative demands for compulsory tests.

What Is a Narco Test?

A forensic technique where a subject is administered truth-serum drugs (e.g., sodium pentothal) to lower inhibitions and induce responses.
Problems:

• Violates Article 20(3): right against self-incrimination
  
• Violates Article 21: bodily autonomy & mental privacy
  
• Risk of false/misleading statements; not scientifically reliable
  

What Have Courts Said?

• SC in Selvi vs State of Karnataka (2010):
  • Narco tests cannot be forced
  •  Statements obtained are not admissible evidence
  •  At best, they may lead to investigative leads, not proof
    
• Use must follow voluntary consent + judicial supervision.

Significance: Reaffirms procedural fairness, individual liberty, and safeguards against investigative overreach.

Q. With reference to Narco-analysis in India, consider the following statements:

1. A narco test can be conducted without consent if authorised by a magistrate for serious offences.
   
2. Information revealed during a voluntary narco test is fully admissible as evidence in court.
   
3. The Supreme Court has held that compulsory narco tests violate both Article 20(3) and Article 21.
   

How many of the above statements are correct?
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None