Forensic Genetics In Crime Investigation In India
- IJLLR Journal
- Aug 1
- 2 min read
Shubhasri Roy, LL.M, Department of Law, University of Calcutta (Hazra Campus).
Dr. Kavita Lama, Assistant Professor of Law, Department of Law, University of Calcutta, Orcid ID: 0000-0001-6581-2948
ABSTRACT
Forensic genetics plays a vital role in modern crime investigation. It bridges the gap between biology and law enforcement and fuses biological science with legal investigations. It helps to uncover the crucial evidence hidden in DNA. Advanced molecular biology techniques analyze the genetic material found at crime scenes, such as blood, hair, skin cells, and bodily fluids. DNA profiling is one of the essential aspects of forensic genetics, which allows investigators to match biological evidence with potential suspects or victims, even in decades- old cases.
With its exceptional accuracy, forensic genetics helps to identify individuals by making a comparison between DNA sequences collected from the crime scene samples and those stored in databases. This has modernized crime investigations and helped to identify the criminal. It also contributed to solving cases once thought insurmountable and helped in acquitting the wrongfully convicted. Furthermore, it plays a significant role in resolving familial disputes and mass disaster victim identification.
Evolving technologies, such as next-generation sequencing (NGS), help enhance forensic genetics capabilities. It points out how these technologies help analyze and provide more detailed insights into complex samples, like those that have deteriorated over time, which were previously very difficult to interpret. Bioinformatics plays a crucial role in the analysis of genetic data. It helps in expediting the justice delivery process by solving crimes. Forensic genetics ensures the thoughtful use of sensitive genetic information, combined with ethics and law. Though forensic genetics is a powerful component in crime investigation, it also faces various challenges, such as interpretation complexities, privacy concerns, etc.
Forensic genetics mainly represents the fusion of science and justice. It strengthens the crime investigation through the detailed analysis of genetic evidence. As technology advances, its potential continues to expand, and it promises a future where justice is more efficient and accurate. This paper highlights the advancements of DNA profiling, challenges in forensic infrastructure, and legal acceptance of DNA evidence in Indian courts. The paper addresses the lack of a robust legal framework and forensic infrastructure for DNA technology in criminal investigations in India.
Keywords: Forensic Genetics, Crime, Criminal Investigation, DNA
