NEED FOR A NATIONAL FORENSIC SCIENCE POLICY IN INDIA
Joel James J, LL.M, 4th Semester, Student at Tamil Nadu Dr. Ambedkar Law University (India)
The use of forensic science has become increasingly important in criminal investigations because it helps investigators rely on scientific findings rather than depending entirely on witness statements or confessions. As crime has become more complex with the growth of technology, cyber offences, organised criminal activities, and sophisticated methods of committing offences, the need for scientific investigation has grown significantly. Forensic evidence today plays an important role in identifying offenders, establishing facts, supporting prosecutions, and ensuring that innocent people are not wrongly implicated. In recent years, India has taken several steps to strengthen the use of forensic science within the criminal justice system. However, despite these developments, the forensic framework in the country continues to face a number of practical and institutional challenges. Many forensic laboratories experience heavy workloads, delays in issuing reports, shortage of trained personnel, and lack of modern infrastructure. Differences in facilities and standards across States have also created uneven levels of forensic support in criminal investigations. Although various laws, institutions, and investigative agencies make use of forensic science, there is still no comprehensive national policy that provides a clear and uniform direction for the development and regulation of forensic services throughout the country. This article examines the need for a National Forensic Science Policy in India and argues that such a policy has become necessary for strengthening scientific investigation and improving the effectiveness of criminal justice administration. The study analyses the present forensic science framework, identifies the major issues affecting forensic services, and discusses the consequences of these shortcomings for criminal investigations and court proceedings. It further explores how national policy can help establish uniform standards, improve infrastructure, promote professional training, encourage technological advancement, and strengthen coordination among different institutions involved in the criminal justice process. The article concludes that a comprehensive National Forensic Science Policy can play an important role in improving the reliability, efficiency, and credibility of scientific investigation in India.
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| Research Paper | LawFoyer International Journal of Doctrinal Legal Research (LIJDLR), Volume 4, Issue 2, Page 2009–2035. |
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