What You Do (and Don't) Have to Say in Interrogation
You're not required to talk your way out of a situation — and you're not required to talk your way into one either.
Article 20(3) protects you against self-incrimination — you can't be forced to make a statement that incriminates you. You can confirm basic identity details, but you're not obligated to answer every question asked during informal questioning.
You have the right to consult a lawyer before detailed questioning begins, and ideally to have one present. Asking for this isn't an admission of guilt — it's a standard, expected step.
If you're ever unsure whether to answer something, it's completely reasonable to say "I'd like to speak to a lawyer first" and repeat that calmly if needed.
No one can be compelled to be a witness against themselves
Still wondering about...
Does staying silent make me look guilty?
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Open the Full GuideAdhikar is an independent citizen-awareness platform, not a Government of India website and doesn't take a position on the NEET protests themselves — this is general information about rights every student already has, not legal advice for a specific situation. For that, contact a lawyer or the free legal aid helpline (15100).