A Survey-Based Study on the Significance and Scenarios of Forensic Science in the Different Hierarchies of the Criminal Justice System

Kumar S and Kumar v

Published on: 2023-11-20

Abstract

Background of the Study

Forensic science is an integral part of the stakeholders involved in the criminal justice system and it plays a significant role by providing objective and scientific analysis of evidence to aid in the investigation, prosecution, and resolution of criminal cases. The interplay of forensic science varies at different hierarchical set-ups of judicial systems. Nowadays every states in India is using forensic science to the different extent but its efficacy and actual scenario has not been evaluated. This study conducted to insight into the strength and weakness in infrastructure, also allows a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by different stakeholders and their feedback on potential of the forensic science and gives understanding to identify the gaps in current system which enable the system to make better policy related to forensic science. 

Methodology

The survey was carried out in three districts of Jharkhand: Ranchi, Hazaribagh and Chatra. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of forensic science at Jharkhand criminal justice system. It included different Law enforcement agencies Police Personnel working with the Jharkhand State Police, Forensic Scientist of Directorate of Forensic Science Jharkhand, Public Prosecutor, Defence Lawyer and Judicial officer. Both qualitative and quantitative aspects have been taken into consideration for the study. The methodology followed by a questionnaire-based interview.

Result

The Police officer and Station In-charge of the respective Police Station were undergone for Forensic training and have knowledge about the various Forensic tools and their use the investigation process. The exposure of Forensic knowledge includes Forensic Physics, Forensic Chemistry, Forensic Explosives, Toxicology, Narcotics, Forensic Explosives, Forensic Ballistics, Cyber-Forensic, Forensic biology and DNA etc. It was reported by Police officers that there is need of improvement in investigation process. The modification and effective investigation process should be employed with the help of using scientific aids and tool. Lawyers and public prosecutors also found forensic report highly relevant and useful in courtroom.