Lucknow, The Allahabad High Court's Lucknow bench has expressed concern over the shortage of forensic science laboratories in Uttar Pradesh, observing that the existing infrastructure is inadequate considering the state's size and population.
A division bench of Justice Rajesh Singh Chauhan and Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra made the observation while hearing a PIL filed by advocate Piyush Gupta. The court noted that UP has only one state Forensic Science Laboratory and 12 regional forensic laboratories.
The bench directed the director of the UP Forensic Science Laboratory to file a detailed reply within four weeks. The matter will be taken up in the week commencing November 30.
The PIL seeks directions to the state government to frame and notify a standard operating procedure , prescribing maximum timelines for forensic examinations and submission of reports from the date samples are received by laboratories.
It also seeks priority for cases involving accused persons in judicial custody and time-bound procedures for cases covered under Section 193 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita which mandates that investigations into specified sexual offences must be completed within two months.
The petitioner has further sought a mechanism requiring the laboratory director to record written reasons for delays beyond the prescribed timelines. The plea also proposes regular reviews of pending cases by a designated officer.
{{/usCountry}}The petitioner has further sought a mechanism requiring the laboratory director to record written reasons for delays beyond the prescribed timelines. The plea also proposes regular reviews of pending cases by a designated officer.
{{/usCountry}}The petition argues that delays in forensic reports can adversely affect trials involving undertrial prisoners and hamper prosecution in serious offences, including rape and murder. Delayed scientific evidence can also prolong the wait for justice for victims and their families, it said.
During the hearing, the petitioner referred to data on forensic laboratories across various states cited in the Union Home Ministry's reply to the Lok Sabha.
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