<p>Audiologists play an increasingly important role in forensic and medico-legal settings, especially in cases involving hearing loss, personal injury, and disability assessment. Despite the growing demand for expert opinions from audiologists, there is limited legal recognition, institutional support, and standardization in their role as expert witnesses in Indian courts. This paper explores the legal framework under the Indian Evidence Act, the Code of Civil Procedure, and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, and highlights the practical challenges faced by audiologists when appearing in court. It further examines the eligibility requirements under the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) Act, 1992, and provides comparative insights from international practices. The paper concludes by recommending formal forensic training, standard operating protocols, and institutional support to strengthen the role of audiologists as credible expert witnesses in the Indian legal system. </p>

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Audiologists as Expert Witnesses in Indian Courts: Legal Framework, Challenges, and the Way Forward

  • Yogesh Mahajan

摘要

Audiologists play an increasingly important role in forensic and medico-legal settings, especially in cases involving hearing loss, personal injury, and disability assessment. Despite the growing demand for expert opinions from audiologists, there is limited legal recognition, institutional support, and standardization in their role as expert witnesses in Indian courts. This paper explores the legal framework under the Indian Evidence Act, the Code of Civil Procedure, and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, and highlights the practical challenges faced by audiologists when appearing in court. It further examines the eligibility requirements under the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) Act, 1992, and provides comparative insights from international practices. The paper concludes by recommending formal forensic training, standard operating protocols, and institutional support to strengthen the role of audiologists as credible expert witnesses in the Indian legal system.