Question

Given below are two statements — Assertion (A) and Reason (R):
Assertion (A): Any person having an interest in a newspaper declared forfeited may apply to the High Court to set aside the declaration within two months of its publication in the Official Gazette.
Reason (R): The Special Bench of the High Court to hear such applications must always consist of exactly three judges, regardless of the strength of that High Court.
In the context of the above assertion and reason under the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, which one is correct?

• A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
• B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
• C. (A) is true, but (R) is false
• D. (A) is false, but (R) is true

Hint:

Forfeiture under Section 95/96 CrPC → Appeal within 2 months → Special Bench = minimum three judges.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Check Assertion (A).
Section 96 CrPC provides the right to appeal within two months of publication of the forfeiture order. Hence, Assertion (A) is correct.
Step 2: Check Reason (R).
The Special Bench must consist of at least three judges, not “exactly” three, and the strength may vary depending on the High Court. Thus, (R) is false.
Step 3: Conclusion.
(A) is true, (R) is false ⇒ Option (3).