(a) The defendant may challenge peremptorily, in capital cases, twelve (12) jurors, in other felonies eight (8) jurors, and in misdemeanors four (4) jurors. The prosecution may challenge peremptorily, in capital cases, twelve (12) jurors, in other felonies eight (8) jurors, and in misdemeanors four (4) jurors. The number of peremptory challenges allowed to the prosecution shall be multiplied by the number of defendants on trial in each case. Each defendant shall be allowed separate peremptory challenges.
(b) All challenges made under subsection (a) of this section shall be secret challenges.