Which of the following articles of the Indian Constitution mentions that no person accused of any offence shall be compelled to be a witness against himself?  

Key Points

• Article 20 of the Indian Constitution provides protection against arbitrary and excessive punishment to an individual.
• It states that no person accused of any offence shall be compelled to be a witness against himself.
• This article ensures the protection of the rights of individuals in criminal cases and prevents self-incrimination.
• Article 20 is a fundamental right guaranteed under Part III of the Constitution of India.

Additional Information

• Article 20 includes three clauses: protection against ex post facto laws, protection against double jeopardy, and protection against self-incrimination.
• Clause (1) prohibits retroactive criminal legislation.
• Clause (2) prohibits double jeopardy, i.e., no person shall be prosecuted and punished for the same offence more than once.
• Clause (3) protects individuals from being compelled to testify against themselves.
• These protections are available to both citizens and non-citizens.