Polygraph Test

About Polygraph test:

• The polygraph test operates on the premise that physiological responses triggered when a person is lying differ from their responses when they are being truthful.
• During the test, instruments such as cardio-cuffs or sensitive electrodes are attached to the suspect to measure variables such as blood pressure, pulse rate, respiration, sweat gland activity, and blood flow as questions are posed.
• Evaluation: Each response is given a numerical value to determine whether the individual is telling the truth, being deceptive, or uncertain.

Supreme Court Judgements:

• According to the Supreme Court of India’s judgment in Selvi & Ors vs State of Karnataka & Anr (2010):
  • Polygraph tests can only be administered with the accused’s consent.
  • Consent must be informed, with the accused having access to legal counsel and a thorough explanation of the test’s physical, emotional, and legal implications.
  • The National Human Rights Commission’s Guidelines for polygraph tests, issued in 2000, must be strictly adhered to.
  • The accused’s consent should be documented before a judicial magistrate.
  • Any evidence or information obtained through a voluntarily consented polygraph test can be admitted in court.

Q1. What is a Narco Test?

In a ‘narco’ or narco analysis test, a drug called sodium pentothal is injected into the body of the accused, which transports them to a hypnotic or sedated state in which their imagination is neutralised.

Source: Kolkata doctor rape-murder: What Sanjay Roy told CBI during polygraph test | Latest News India - Hindustan Times