Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: Only I
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Court directions that restrict an accused (and associates) from contacting witnesses aim to preserve evidence, prevent intimidation, and ensure a fair trial. We must test which assumptions are minimally necessary for the order to be rational.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
The operative logic of the order is evidence protection and process integrity. It does not speak to sentencing philosophy (II) nor is it primarily a victim-compensation order (III). The minimal premise is the risk of interference with witnesses or evidence (I).
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Prohibiting contact is justified if the court believes contact could taint, pressure, or influence witnesses (I).2) Claim II pertains to sentencing norms and equality before law; the order is pre-trial procedural and does not presuppose a punishment principle.3) Claim III reframes the order as victim-centric grievance redressal, whereas its content targets interference prevention. Not necessary.
Verification / Alternative check:
Even if victims’ grievances were already addressed, the order would still be justified on preservation grounds. Likewise, sentencing principles (II) are orthogonal at this stage.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Only I and II”/“Only I and III”/“All” add superfluous premises; “None of the above” denies the evident interference-risk premise.
Common Pitfalls:
Reading a procedural safeguard as a value statement about punishment or victim policy.
Final Answer:
Only I.
Discussion & Comments