What is the action of intervening on behalf of another called?

The correct answer is intercede. This term specifically refers to the act of intervening or mediating on behalf of someone else, often with the intention of helping or offering support in a situation or conflict. When someone intercedes, they step in to provide assistance or advocacy for another party. This action typically implies a sense of benevolence and a desire to improve the circumstances of the person being supported.

In contrast, the other options carry different meanings. Pander refers to catering to someone's desires or weaknesses, often with a negative connotation of exploiting or manipulating. Perpetrate relates to carrying out a harmful or immoral act, usually implying wrongdoing. Scrutinize means to examine something very closely and critically, which does not involve any form of intervention on behalf of another individual.