Court’s decision sparks vital debate on the judiciary’s power to order voice samples from witnesses, not just accused persons.

The Court firmly held that furnishing a voice sample is merely physical evidence and does not infringe Article 20(3) of the Constitution.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Magistrates can direct both accused and witnesses to provide voice samples.

✅ Voice sampling is material, not testimonial evidence; Article 20(3) protection does not apply.

✅ Section 349 BNSS (2023) now provides express statutory support.

Statutes:

✅ Indian Constitution Article 20(3)

✅ Section 349 BNSS, 2023

Precedent: Ritesh Sinha v. State of Uttar Pradesh (2019 8 SCC 1)

#SupremeCourt #CriminalLaw #VoiceSample #Article20 #BNSS