The Role Of DNA In Indian Criminal Justice System

Samiksha Jain, LL.B., Asian Law College, Noida

Nitika Goyal, LL.B., Asian Law College, Noida

ABSTRACT

Deoxyribonucleic Acid, in the last few years, has been emerging as a critical challenging tool for achieving accuracy in court. Forensic science is an important aspect of justice delivery that deals with victims of scientific advances in law. There are multiple ways that DNA can be utilized in solving crimes. To check whether an accused person is guilty or not, one can compare the DNA profiles from suspects and crime scene exhibits. Examples of this include; hair, blood, saliva, sperm, bones, skin and cheek cells for taking samples of deoxyribonucleic acid. These kinds of proof support criminal investigations and help create a connection between the offenders and the crime. Therefore, DNA evidence is essential for defending victim rights and resolving serious crimes like rape, sexual assault, and murder. In addition, DNA testing is used to settle civil cases involving immigration, parentage, and the fraudulent sale of plant and animal products. The aim of this paper is to give readers knowledge about DNA evidence, its importance in the administration of justice and how it can be presented before a court. This essay focuses on examining how DNA evidence is employed in the Indian criminal justice system, how it has changed over time and whether it can be legally used under different legislations. The study also intends to ascertain whether criminal laws should be created or amended to incorporate DNA evidence and whether a DNA database is required to guarantee the prompt identification of offenders.

Keywords: DNA Evidence, Forensic Science, DNA Legislation