Okay, let's tackle this question about dying declarations. The user wants a detailed explanation for a medical MCQ. The question is about who can receive a dying declaration. First, I need to recall the legal aspects of evidence in medical contexts, especially in India since the options might relate to Indian legal procedures.

Core Concept: A dying declaration is a statement made by a person who is about to die, regarding the cause of their death. It's admissible as evidence under certain legal frameworks. In India, this is covered under Section 32(1) of the Indian Evidence Act. The key point here is that the declaration must be made to a person who is legally authorized to record it.

The correct answer would be a police officer or a magistrate. So, the options might include a doctor, police officer, magistrate, etc. But the user hasn't provided the options. However, based on standard MCQs, common distractors could be a doctor, family member, or a witness.

Why is the correct answer a police officer or magistrate? Because they are the legal authorities empowered to record such declarations. The declaration must be made under the belief that death is imminent, and it's relevant to the cause of death. The person receiving it must be in a position to act on it, like initiating an investigation.

Wrong options: A doctor might be present, but unless they are acting as a magistrate or police officer, they can't receive it. A family member or witness isn't legally authorized.

Clinical Pearl: Remember that dying declarations are exceptions to the hearsay rule and are admissible if made under the belief of impending death. Ensure the person receiving it is a legal authority.

Need to structure all this into the required sections, making sure each part is concise and covers the necessary points without exceeding the character limit. Check for clarity and accuracy in legal terms relevant to the exam.

**Core Concept**
A **dying declaration** is a statement made by a person who believes death is imminent, regarding the cause or circumstances of their death. It is admissible as evidence under **Section 32(1) of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872**, provided it is made to a **competent authority** like a police officer or magistrate.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The declaration must be recorded by a **law enforcement officer** (e.g., police) or **judicial magistrate** to ensure legal validity. These authorities are empowered to investigate and document the cause of death, preserving the statement’s admissibility in court. The declarant must be conscious, lucid, and under the firm belief of impending death.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** A **doctor** can examine the deceased but is not authorized to record a dying declaration unless acting as a magistrate.
**Option B:** A **family member** lacks legal authority to receive such declarations.
**Option C:** A **witness** present at the scene cannot act as a legal recorder unless they are a police officer or magistrate.
**Option D:** A **village head** (e.g., sarpanch) is not a recognized legal authority under the Evidence Act for this purpose.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Dying declarations are **hearsay exceptions** in criminal law but require strict adherence to procedural rules. Always confirm the **

✓ Correct Answer: D. All