Fingerprint evidence has developed as one of the most important forms of scientific evidence used in criminal investigations and court processes. Fingerprint identification’s reliability is mainly based on the principles of individuality and permanence. These principles have helped courts and investigating agencies to use fingerprint analysis as an effective mechanism for establishing identity and connecting accused people to crime scenes.  Recent years have seen the evolution of forensic science and digital technologies such as Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS), biometric databases and digital imaging techniques which have greatly enhanced the efficiency and accuracy of fingerprint analysis. Fingerprint evidence, regardless of its probative value, continues to present substantial legal and constitutional problems. Poor collection procedures, bias on the part of examiners, partial prints, contamination and technical deficiencies can compromise the reliability of forensic findings and lead to wrongful convictions. Moreover, the increasing proliferation of biometric surveillance and centralised data collection systems has led to heated debates as to privacy rights, data protection and state surveillance especially following the constitutional recognition of privacy as a fundamental right in Justice K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India. This research critically reviews the scientific basis of fingerprint identification, the legal regime for fingerprint evidence in India and some landmark judicial pronouncements on the admissibility and constitutional limitations of fingerprint evidence. The report also looks at the implications of the Criminal Procedure (Identification) Act, 2022 and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 on the collection, storage and preservation of biometric evidence. It ends with recommendations for reforms to improve forensic accountability, procedural safeguards, scientific standardisation and privacy protection within India’s criminal justice system.