Explanation:

Let’s break it down:

- Option 1: is mandatory

This would mean the complainant must file a list of witnesses before the court can issue process under Section 204 CrPC. If not, the process couldn’t go ahead.

But, that’s not how the law actually works.

- Option 2: is directory

The complainant *should* provide the list of witnesses, but if they don’t, it doesn’t automatically stop the issuance of summons or warrant. The court has flexibility.

In real practice, courts have held this requirement to be directory, not compulsory.

- Option 3: neither mandatory nor directory

That would mean there’s no real legal expectation for filing at all, which isn’t true. The CrPC does mention it—just not in an absolute way.

- Option 4: either mandatory or directory

This is just confusing and doesn’t clarify anything—it’s one or the other, not both at once.

So, your pick—Option 2—is exactly right: the requirement is directory, not mandatory.