Himachal Pradesh High Court Seeks State's Response In Plea For Upgradation Of Criminal Investigation Methods, Forensic Labs
The Himachal Pradesh High Court has sought the response of the State government in a writ petition seeking upgradation of the practices used by Investigating Agencies during the course of the crime investigation.A Division Bench of Chief Justice Mohammad Rafiq and Justice Jyotsna Rewal Dua has also asked the State government to specify the pendency of samples in the Forensic Science...
The Himachal Pradesh High Court has sought the response of the State government in a writ petition seeking upgradation of the practices used by Investigating Agencies during the course of the crime investigation.
A Division Bench of Chief Justice Mohammad Rafiq and Justice Jyotsna Rewal Dua has also asked the State government to specify the pendency of samples in the Forensic Science Laboratories and the equipment required to expedite the process.
The plea was filed by Advocate Neha Scott over tampering of evidence in criminal cases due to outdated and archaic procedure for collection and sealing of physical evidence from crime scene.
The Petitioner raised a question as to why, with the passage of time and the introduction of new technology, the authorities/legislators have not thought it prudent to amend the rules to keep up with the times.
During the course of hearing on March 2, the Amicus Curiae sought time to submit a report after visiting the laboratories, highlighting the issues as to in what manner, the functioning and quality of the State Forensic Science Laboratory (SFSL), Junga and Range Forensic Science Laboratories Dharamshala & Mandi can be improved.
While allowing the request, the Court further directed the State government to specify:
-total number of pendency of samples in all the three laboratories of different divisions/Districts;
-average time taken for giving the report on the samples received from the Investigating Agencies;
-staff strength of the aforesaid laboratories;
-how many posts are lying vacant, which are required to be filled-up either by direct recruitment or by promotion;
-how many machines in the laboratories are lying out of order, which are required to be repaired; and
-what further machines are required to be procured to expedite the process of sending reports to the Investigating Agencies.
The matter is now listed for filing of reports on March 30.
Case Title: Neha Scott vs State Of H.P. And Others