A one-day workshop on the collection and preservation of biological matrices for DNA profiling and forensic toxicology was organized by the Directorate of Forensic Services, Junga in Shimla district.
The workshop aimed to enhance the expertise of medical officers from various districts of the state in the scientific collection and preservation of biological and physical evidence.
A Spokesperson of the department of Forensic Services said that this initiative was part of the meeting of the HP Forensic Development Board held last year under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.
Director of Forensic Services Dr. Meenakshi Mahajan emphasized the growing significance of DNA evidence in criminal investigations, particularly in cases like sexual assault and homicide. She also stressed the need for proper evidence handling and updated forensic knowledge among medical officers.
The Spokesperson said that the State Forensic Science Laboratory (SFSL), Junga regularly conducts specialized training for police investigators, medical officers and prosecution officers to strengthen forensic practices in the state. As per Section 176(3) of the CrPC, forensic specialists mandated to visit crime scenes in cases where the punishment extends up to seven years of imprisonment.
