What is the right to silence ?

The right to silence emanates from Article 20(3) of the Indian Constitution, which states that no one can be compelled to be a witness against himself. The provision gives an accused the right against self-incrimination -- a fundamental canon of law

The *right to silence* means that if someone is accused of a crime, they have the right to remain silent and not answer questions or provide information that could be used against them in a court of law. It is based on the fundamental principle that no person can be compelled to be a witness against themselves

The act of maintaining silence is an act of speech and expression. Thus, remaining silent while the national anthem is being sung is covered by it.

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Notes of Nagesh

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