India has witnessed a transformative shift in its approach to criminal justice, driven largely by technological advancements and a pressing need to address the evolving nature of crime. Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s remarks at the All-India Forensic Science Summit 2025 underscore this transformation, emphasising the growing significance of forensic science in a justice system striving to be more scientific, people-centric, and efficient. The rise of cybercrime, cross-border terrorism, organised crime syndicates, and digitally enabled financial frauds has rendered traditional methods of investigation insufficient. Crime has become “borderless”, with perpetrators often operating across multiple jurisdictions, evading law enforcement through the use of technology and mobility. In this context, forensic science emerges not merely as an investigative tool but as a foundational element in modern law enforcement and judicial processes.
The Government’s decision to integrate forensic science into the core of the criminal justice process is both timely and strategic. Under the new criminal laws implemented from July 1, 2024, forensic evidence is mandatory in cases where the punishment extends to seven years or more. This institutionalises forensic processes such as DNA analysis, digital forensics, toxicology, and crime scene reconstruction, ensuring that evidence collection and interpretation are conducted with scientific precision.
One of the critical drivers behind this shift is the low conviction rate in the country’s criminal justice system, which has historically suffered from delays, lack of robust evidence, and overreliance on eyewitness testimony. Forensic science offers a path to overcome these shortcomings. Scientific evidence is not only more reliable but also more difficult to manipulate. The use of forensic methods enhances the credibility of investigations and aids the judiciary in reaching conclusive judgements, ultimately leading to higher conviction rates and swifter justice.
The establishment of the National Forensic Sciences University, with its campuses across multiple states, reflects the Government’s commitment to building forensic capacity at a national level. By training skilled professionals, promoting interdisciplinary research, and setting standards for forensic practices, NFSU is positioned to become a pivotal institution in India’s criminal justice landscape. The university also facilitates collaboration among law enforcement agencies, scientists, and legal experts, fostering an integrated approach to justice delivery.
The integration of forensic science at every stage of the criminal justice process – from crime scene examination to courtroom presentation – signals a broader shift toward evidence-based policing. This transition is critical in a country as vast and diverse as India, where disparities in policing standards and judicial efficiency often result in uneven access to justice. Standardising forensic procedures can help bridge these gaps and promote uniformity across states.
However, challenges remain. India needs significant investment in forensic infrastructure, including modern laboratories, trained personnel, and legal frameworks that can handle the nuances of scientific evidence. There should be continuous training of law enforcement officers and judicial staff to ensure they are equipped to understand and use forensic evidence effectively. Public awareness must also be raised to foster trust in scientific processes and discourage reliance on extra-legal methods of justice.
Forensic science is no longer a supplementary tool in India’s legal system-it is becoming a cornerstone. As crime evolves in complexity and scale, so must the institutions designed to combat it. The Government’s foresight in recognising and institutionalising the role of forensic science marks a decisive step towards a more just, efficient, and scientific criminal justice system. If these reforms are implemented with consistency and rigour, India may be on its way to achieving one of the highest conviction rates in the world, ensuring justice for both the victim and the accused, without delay or prejudice.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
