SELVI vs STATE OF KARNATAKA

The Supreme Court addressed the legality of involuntary scientific techniques such as narcoanalysis, polygraph tests, and BEAP tests in criminal investigations, emphasizing the conflict between effective law enforcement and individual rights. The Court held that the involuntary administration of these tests violates the 'right against self-incrimination' under Article 20(3) of the Constitution, establishing that such tests cannot be conducted without consent. Consequently, the Court ruled that information obtained through these methods cannot be used in criminal trials, reinforcing the protection of individual liberties in the face of investigative practices.