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VOL. 9, ISSUE 3 (2024)
Standardization and accreditation of forensic science laboratories in India: Challenges, global perspectives, and the path forward
Authors
Dr. Siddhant Chandra, Dr. Kaustav Choudhoury
Abstract
Forensic science laboratories constitute the backbone of modern
criminal justice systems, providing scientific evidence that bridges law
enforcement investigations and judicial proceedings. In India, despite a
network of 697 forensic facilities comprising 7 Central Forensic Science Laboratories,
32 State Forensic Science Laboratories, 106 Regional Forensic Science
Laboratories, and 552 mobile forensic units, the forensic infrastructure faces
critical challenges in standardization and accreditation. This comprehensive
study examines the state of forensic laboratory accreditation in India, with
particular emphasis on compliance with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standards and
National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)
requirements. Employing mixed-methods research combining quantitative surveys
of 100-150 forensic personnel and qualitative case studies of 20-30 key
stakeholders, this research reveals that only 6-8% of Indian forensic
laboratories have achieved NABL accreditation, compared to 88% in the United
States and 95% in the United Kingdom. The study identifies eight major
challenge categories: infrastructure shortage, critical manpower deficits
affecting approximately 40% of positions, massive case backlogs ranging from
18,000 to 62,000 pending cases per laboratory, inadequate quality management
systems, outdated technology affecting 50.4% of cases, insufficient training
programs, lack of standardized protocols, and persistent funding constraints.
Through comparative analysis with international forensic standards including
ISO 21043, ILAC G19 guidelines, and regulatory frameworks from the United
Kingdom and United States, this research demonstrates significant gaps in
India's forensic quality assurance mechanisms. The findings underscore the
urgent need for comprehensive reforms including mandatory accreditation,
establishment of a central forensic science regulator with statutory powers,
standardized operating procedures, enhanced budgetary allocations, and robust
quality management systems.
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Pages:46-50
How to cite this article:
Dr. Siddhant Chandra, Dr. Kaustav Choudhoury "Standardization and accreditation of forensic science laboratories in India: Challenges, global perspectives, and the path forward". International Journal of Multidisciplinary Education and Research, Vol 9, Issue 3, 2024, Pages 46-50
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