Part III - Fundamental Rights • Article

Article 20 Simplified: Protection in respect of conviction for offences

Article 20 provides three vital shields for anyone accused of a crime. 1) You can't be punished for something that wasn't a crime when you did it. 2) You cannot be punished twice for the same crime (Double Jeopardy). 3) The police cannot force you to speak against yourself (Right to Silence).

Official Text

(1) No person shall be convicted of any offence except for violation of a law in force at the time of the commission of the Act charged as an offence, nor be subjected to a penalty greater than that which might have been inflicted under the law in force at the time of the commission of the offence. (2) No person shall be prosecuted and punished for the same offence more than once. (3) No person accused of any offence shall be compelled to be a witness against himself.

Simple Meaning

Explain Like Ten

If you are accused of something, the teacher can't punish you twice for it, and they can't force you to tattle on yourself.

Student Mode

Protects against ex-post-facto laws, double jeopardy, and self-incrimination.

Example

If the government makes 'drinking soda' a crime tomorrow, they cannot arrest you for drinking soda yesterday. Also, the police cannot beat a confession out of you because you have the right to remain silent.

Key Takeaway

Article 20 ensures that the legal system is fair even to those accused of crimes.

FAQs

What is Double Jeopardy?

The rule that you cannot be punished or tried twice for the exact same crime.

Can the police force you to sign a confession?

No, Article 20(3) protects you from being a witness against yourself ('self-incrimination').

What is an 'Ex-Post-Facto' law?

A law that punishes an act that was legal when it was done; Article 20(1) bans this for criminal cases.

Does Art 20 apply during Emergency?

Yes, Article 20 is one of the few rights that CANNOT be suspended even during a National Emergency.

Quiz

The 'Right to Silence' is part of:

Answer: Art 20

Double Jeopardy means:

Answer: Double Punishment

Can a law punish a past legal act?

Answer: No

Art 20 is suspended in Emergency?