Correct option is D
The correct answer is
"Any person." An identification parade is a process used in criminal investigations where witnesses or victims are asked to identify a suspect from a group of similar-looking individuals. While typically conducted under the supervision of the police or a Magistrate, there is no legal provision that restricts the holding of an identification parade exclusively to a police officer, Magistrate, or public servant. In principle, any person can organize an identification parade, though for evidentiary value and to ensure fairness, it is recommended to be conducted under police or judicial oversight.
Information Booster
Identification Parade: An identification parade is a procedure in which a witness or victim of a crime is asked to identify the suspect from a lineup of individuals with similar appearances. This is an important step in the investigation process to confirm the identity of the accused and support the credibility of the witness’s testimony in Court.
Additional Knowledge
1.
Option (a) Police Officer only: While identification parades are commonly conducted by the police, the law does not exclusively empower police officers to conduct them. The involvement of a police officer is mainly to ensure that the procedure is conducted fairly and the results are documented appropriately.
2.
Option (b) Magistrate only: A Magistrate's presence is often requested to oversee the identification parade, especially in sensitive cases, to maintain impartiality and integrity. However, it is not mandatory that only a Magistrate can hold an identification parade. The presence of a Magistrate adds legal credibility but is not a strict requirement.
3.
Option (c) Public Servant only: A public servant, such as a police officer or a Magistrate, may typically conduct an identification parade, but the scope is not limited to them. This option misleads by implying a restriction which does not exist legally.
4.
Option (d) Any Person: Technically, there is no specific restriction on who can conduct an identification parade. However, for the identification to be legally tenable and credible in Court, it is essential that it is conducted under proper supervision, usually by the police or a judicial officer.
