Indirect Oral investigation is the method in which the data is collected by the investigator by interviewing orally the persons close to the original incidence. It is used when the original persons are not available to give information or when they are reluctant to give information. The below are the merits and demerits of indirect oral investigation.
Merits:
(i) A wide area can be covered by interviewing several people.
(ii) The cost and energy for the investigation is less. It even takes less time
(iii) Its simple and convenient
Demerits:
(i) The degree of accuracy of information is less.
(ii) This method leads to doubtful, conclusion due to ignorance and carelessness of the witness.