The CBI has recently conducted polygraph tests in connection with the rape of a resident doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College in Kolkata.
About Polygraph Test:
- A polygraph test is a type of deception detection method that measures physiological responses like blood pressure, sweat, breathing, and pulse rate to determine if someone is lying.
- The test operates on the belief that these physiological responses change when a person is lying compared to when they are telling the truth.
- Instruments such as cardio-cuffs or electrodes are attached to the subject during the test to monitor these physiological changes as questions are asked.
- Despite its use, the effectiveness of polygraph tests is still debated in the medical community.
Supreme Court Judgments:
Selvi & Ors vs State of Karnataka & Anr (2010):
- The Supreme Court ruled that polygraph tests can only be conducted with the informed consent of the accused.
- The accused must be fully aware of the test’s physical, emotional, and legal consequences, with access to legal counsel.
- The National Human Rights Commission’s guidelines from 2000 must be strictly followed.
- The consent of the accused should be documented before a judicial magistrate.
- Any evidence obtained through a voluntarily consented polygraph test may be used in court.
Ref: Source
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Frequently Asked Question:
What does a polygraph test measure to detect deception?
A polygraph test measures physiological responses such as blood pressure, sweat, breathing, and pulse rate to detect deception.
Can a polygraph test be used as evidence in court?
Yes, evidence from a polygraph test can be used in court if the test was conducted with the voluntary consent of the accused.
How does a polygraph test differ from other lie detection methods?
Polygraph tests focus on physiological changes, unlike other methods that may rely on behavioral analysis or neurological responses.
What are the alternatives to polygraph testing for detecting lies?
Alternatives to polygraph tests include voice stress analysis, fMRI scans, and expert psychological evaluations.