How does cross-examination function in CrPC?

• A. It requires the judge to issue warrants
• B. It accelerates the trial by skipping testimony
• C. It prevents defense from presenting evidence
• D. It tests credibility and reliability of witnesses by challenging their testimony

Answer: (D)

Cross-examination is the stage where the opposing side questions a witness to probe how trustworthy and accurate their testimony is. The goal is to test credibility and reliability by exposing inconsistencies, gaps in memory, biases, or motives to mislead, and by comparing what the witness now says with earlier statements or other evidence. This helps the court judge how much weight to give the testimony. It’s not about issuing warrants, speeding up a trial by skipping testimony, or preventing the defense from presenting evidence. Instead, it’s a deliberate check on what the witness has said, so the truth emerges more clearly.