Step 1: Legal principle.
As per the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, statements, admissions, and proposals made during conciliation proceedings are strictly confidential and cannot be used as evidence in any legal or arbitral proceeding.
Step 2: Purpose.
This confidentiality ensures free and fair negotiation without fear of later repercussions.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Hence, option (d) is correct.