NAME- PRITHVEE RAJ

JAIPUR NATIONAL UNIVERSITY

( 3 Year student of BALLB)

TOPIC- ROLE OF FORENSIC SCIENCE IN A CRIME INVESTIGATION

ABSTRACT
Forensic science, also known as criminalistics, utilizes scientific knowledge for the interpretation
and enforcement of laws. Criminalistics, a subset of forensic science, is dedicated to gathering,
analyzing, and interpreting physical evidence arising from criminal activities. This
interdisciplinary field encompasses biology, chemistry, and physics. It is essential to note that
forensic science is distinct from law enforcement, and forensic scientists do not serve as law
enforcement officers. Contrary to popular portrayals in the media, they typically do not engage in
suspect interrogations or crime scene investigations. The primary responsibilities of forensic
scientists include the analysis of physical evidence, result interpretation, and providing expert
testimony in court. These professionals play a crucial role in criminal and civil law, contributing
to tasks such as determining causes of death, identifying criminals, analyzing financial
transactions, investigating internet fraud, and reconstructing vehicular accidents. Moreover,
forensic science extends its application to ensuring compliance with laws related to food and
water safety, medication potency, motor vehicle emissions, and pesticide usage. The
effectiveness of crime laboratory analyses hinges on the proper collection, transportation, and
preservation of specimens, often handled by trained police officers at crime scenes.

INTRODUCTION
Forensic science stands as a paramount component in criminal investigations, facilitating the
identification of suspects and aiding in the determination of when and how a crime transpired.
The term 'forensic' inherently relates to the law, signifying the application of scientific principles
to legal inquiries. Consequently, forensic science involves the meticulous analysis of evidence
provided by law enforcement officers and detectives, culminating in comprehensive reports. This
analytical process serves the crucial purpose of pinpointing irrefutable evidence that establishes a
suspect's culpability in the realm of criminal law.
The scope of forensic science is extensive, encompassing diverse areas such as DNA analysis,
fingerprint examination, autopsies, pathology, toxicology, and more. These specialized domains
play a pivotal role in ascertaining the cause of death and establishing connections to potential
suspects.

Moreover, forensic evidence aligns with the parameters of the Indian legal system, functioning to
guide those conducting criminal investigations and supplying judges with accurate information
upon which they can confidently base decisions in both criminal and civil disputes. In
contemporary times, forensic science has evolved into a highly sophisticated scientific discipline
employed across various investigations. It incorporates advanced techniques like fingerprint
analysis, DNA profiling, ballistics and explosives analysis, firearms examination, among others,
contributing to the meticulous scrutiny of evidence in both criminal and civil contexts.

HISTORY OF FORENSIC SCIENCE

The concept of forensic science is far from novel within the realm of criminal investigations,
tracing its roots back thousands of years. Notably, Argentina took a pioneering step in 1902 by
becoming the first country to integrate forensic evidence into criminal investigations. Sir
William Herschel emerged as a trailblazer in advocating for the use of fingerprinting to identify
criminal suspects.

As early as the late 1700s, forensic science played a pivotal role in determining guilt or
innocence in significant criminal cases, including those involving charges of murder. Over time,
one of the central focuses of forensic science has been the study of DNA, the genetic code
present in all living organisms. As the 20th century drew to a close, forensic scientists gained
access to a myriad of cutting-edge technological tools for evidence analysis. This arsenal
included advancements such as DNA analysis and digital fingerprinting techniques equipped
with computerized search capabilities, showcasing the continuous evolution and sophistication of
forensic science.
ROLE OF FORENSIC SCIENCE IN CRIME INVESTIGATION
Investigation and Analysis of Crime Scenes:
Forensic science begins its crucial role at the crime scene, where meticulous examination unfolds
under the watchful eye of professionals. These experts meticulously identify, document, and
collect physical evidence, including fingerprints, bloodstains, hair strands, clothing, firearms, and
more. By deciphering the environment and the configuration of evidence, specialists reconstruct
the sequence of events that led to the crime, laying the foundational structure for the
investigation.

Collection and Preservation of Evidence:

The acquisition and safeguarding of evidence demand adherence to established methodologies.

Forensic experts rigorously ensure that evidence is handled with utmost care to prevent
contamination, degradation, or misuse. Each piece of evidence undergoes documentation,
identification, and careful preservation to maintain its integrity and competence for presentation
in court. The meticulous trail of evidence is meticulously safeguarded, guiding its journey from
the crime scene to the research center or lab and ultimately to the courtroom. The effective
collection and preservation of evidence in forensic science play a pivotal role in upholding the
reliability and integrity of the criminal justice system. These measures contribute to ensuring the
accurate examination and presentation of evidence during legal proceedings, thereby supporting
the pursuit of justice and safeguarding individual rights.

Laboratory Analysis:

Following evidence collection, an intensive process of laboratory analysis ensues. Various

specialized fields within forensic science, such as DNA analysis, toxicology, ballistics, and
digital forensics, come into play. Experts utilize advanced instruments and techniques to
thoroughly examine the evidence. For instance, DNA profiling can establish connections
between suspects, victims, or crime scenes, while toxicology analysis detects the presence of
drugs or toxins in the body.
Examination of Fingerprints:

Fingerprint analysis remains a cornerstone of forensic science. Distinctive patterns on skin ridges
generate unique fingerprints for each individual. Forensic professionals compare latent
fingerprints found at crime scenes with known prints stored in databases, initiating potential links
to suspects. This methodology has proven indispensable in numerous cases, serving as a crucial
link between identities and locations.

Uncovering Digital Traces:

In the contemporary landscape of criminal investigations, the exploration of digital traces holds
paramount importance, with forensic science playing a vital role in unraveling the intricate web
of digital evidence. As criminal activities increasingly leave electronic footprints, forensic
specialists adeptly navigate this digital realm, employing innovative techniques and cutting-edge
tools to extract, examine, and analyze the electronic evidence left behind by offenders. The
convergence of technology and investigative techniques has firmly established forensic science
as an indispensable tool for extracting digital evidence and shedding light on modern crimes.

Decoding Firearm Evidence:

Within the realm of forensic science, the detailed examination of ballistics evidence stands as a
decisive investigative method with the power to unveil a comprehensive understanding of
criminal events involving firearms. Ballistics analysis requires the meticulous examination of
bullets, cartridge casings, and the distinctive patterns they leave behind. Through the application
of scientific principles and modern procedures, forensic professionals decipher these subtle
indications, unraveling the intricacies of firearms-related events and contributing to a
comprehensive understanding of crime scenes.

Expertise in Forensic Anthropology:

Forensic anthropology focuses on identifying human remains, particularly in cases where

decomposition has occurred. Specialists examine skeletal remains to determine age, sex,
appearance, and possible causes of death. This knowledge aids in identifying victims and
establishing the circumstances of their demise.

Reconstruction of Crimes:

Forensic experts reconstruct the sequence of events leading up to a crime by combining

evidence, analysis, and scientific principles. This process enables law enforcement to understand
the dynamics of the crime, the roles of individuals involved, and possible motives. Crime
reconstruction assists investigators and legal experts in crafting a coherent narrative for the legal
forum.

Expert Witness Testimony:

In the intricate proceedings of the judicial system, the testimony of expert witnesses, particularly
those well-versed in the field of forensic science, holds a crucial position. These individuals,
armed with profound knowledge and extensive training, play a fundamental role in simplifying
complex scientific concepts and evidence for judges and juries. The collaboration between
scientific experts and legal proceedings allows expert witnesses to provide impartial and well-
informed opinions, bridging the gap between intricate forensic investigations and the
understanding of those tasked with delivering judgment.

Revitalizing Cold Cases:

Cold cases, often characterized by their longstanding unresolved status, have experienced
renewed hope through the application of forensic science. These cases, dormant for extended
periods, have seen a resurgence of attention and progress thanks to the maturation of processes
and methodologies within the realm of forensic science. This resurgence breathes new life into
investigations, offering a glimmer of hope for solving mysteries that have perplexed jurisdictions
and communities for years.
CASE LAW RELATED TO FORENSIC SCIENCE

The case of State of Bombay v. Kathi Kalu Oghad and Anr1. established a legal precedent that
compelling an individual to provide forensic evidence, including fingerprints, blood, hair, semen,
does not violate the provision of Article 20(3) of the Indian Constitution. Article 20(3) protects
individuals from being compelled to be a witness against themselves.

Moreover, Section 73 of the Indian Evidence Act reinforces this notion by stating that any person
can be compelled to give fingerprints or undergo DNA examination, even if they are the accused
in a legal proceeding. The mentioned legal provisions and the case law highlight the legal
framework that allows law enforcement and the judiciary to request and use forensic evidence,
ensuring that the rights of individuals are respected within the bounds of the law.

Indeed, the legal stance on the use of lie detector tests, narco analysis, and brain mapping has
evolved through various judicial decisions in India. In the case of Ramchandra Reddy and Ors.
v. The State of Maharashtra,2The Bombay High Court upheld the legality of using lie detector
tests and narco analysis. This decision indicated that these techniques could be employed as
investigative tools.

However, the perspective shifted in the case of Selvi and Ors. v. State of Karnataka and Anr 3.
The Supreme Court, in this instance, held that compelling individuals to undergo brain mapping
or narco-analysis tests is inconclusive and, therefore, violates constitutional rights. The court
ruled that the compulsory administration of these tests would be unconstitutional as it encroaches
upon an individual's right against self-incrimination under Article 20(3) of the Indian
Constitution.

These contrasting decisions highlight the nuanced legal considerations surrounding the use of
certain forensic techniques in criminal investigations, and the courts have sought to strike a
balance between investigative needs and safeguarding individual rights. The legal landscape

1 1961 AIR 1808

2 1982 3 SCC 383
3 (2010)7 SCC 263
continues to evolve as courts grapple with the complex intersection of science, technology, and
constitutional protections in the realm of forensic evidence.

CONCLUSION

Forensic science emerges as a crucial tool in the pursuit of justice, seamlessly integrating
scientific principles with investigative procedures. Its role extends beyond solving crimes; it
serves to exonerate the innocent and ensure accountability for the convicted. From meticulous
crime scene investigations to the presentation of expert evidence, the contributions of forensic
experts form a comprehensive and standardized approach to crime resolution. This robust
foundation enhances the effectiveness of law enforcement and the judicial system, solidifying the
integral position of forensic science in the contemporary era.

Moreover, forensic evidence seamlessly operates within the framework of the Indian legal
system. Its dual responsibility involves guiding individuals conducting criminal investigations
and providing judges with comprehensive information, instilling confidence in their decisions
regarding both criminal and civil disputes. In today's context, forensic science stands as a
sophisticated scientific technology employed in diverse criminal and civil investigations. It
embodies a spectrum of advanced scientific methodologies, including but not limited to
fingerprint analysis, DNA profiling, ballistics, ordinance, and firearms examination.

REFERENCE

http://www.legalserviceindia.com/legal/article-1310-forensic-science-in-criminal-investihttps://
www.amazon.in/Forensic-Science-Criminal-Investigation-Trials/dp/9388548787gation.html

https://www.uclan.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/forensic-science-msc

https://www.forensicsciencesimplified.org/csi/how.html

https://www.nu.edu/blog/what-are-the-types-of-forensic-science/