Question

Any question suggesting the answer which the person putting it expects to receive is called :

• A. Coercive question
• B. Confusing question
• C. Misleading question
• D. Rhetoric Question

Hint:

Always learn the precise legal terminology (e.g., 'Leading Question' from Sec 141, IEA). However, be prepared for exam questions that use synonyms or closely related terms. In such cases, use the process of elimination to find the 'best fit' answer among the given options.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question provides a definition and asks for the correct legal term for it. The definition is "a question suggesting the answer which the person putting it expects to receive." This is the classic definition of a specific type of question in the law of evidence.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The precise legal term for a question that suggests the answer is a "Leading Question". This is explicitly defined under Section 141 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872.
However, "Leading question" is not one of the options. We must therefore choose the best fit from the given choices:
\[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{(A) Coercive question: This involves compulsion or threats, which is different from merely suggesting an answer. } \\ \bullet & \text{(B) Confusing question: This is an ambiguous or unclear question. While a leading question can be confusing, the primary characteristic is suggestion, not ambiguity. } \\ \bullet & \text{(C) Misleading question: This is the closest option. A question that suggests an answer often misleads the witness into giving a particular response rather than their own unaided testimony. It frames the information in a way that guides the witness, which can be a form of misleading. For example, "You were at the scene of the crime, weren't you?" suggests the answer and can be misleading if the witness's presence is a point of contention. } \\ \bullet & \text{(D) Rhetorical question: This is a question asked for effect or to make a point, with no answer being expected. } \\ \end{array}\] Given the choices, "Misleading question" is the most appropriate description, as the act of suggesting an answer can inherently mislead the witness and the court.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct answer is (C). Although the precise term is "Leading Question" under Section 141 of the Evidence Act, among the given options, "Misleading question" is the closest synonym and best describes the nature of such a question.