BENGALURU: The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) here is so inadequately equipped that it takes many years for it to give a report even in a sexual assault case.
Some DNA reports have been pending for eight years and polygraph (lie-detection) tests have not been done since 2009.
Its sanctioned technical staff strength of 148 has remained the same for a decade, though the number of cases is on the rise.
In last six years, the total number of cases received at the Directorate of Forensic Science Laboratories in Karnataka has increased from 13,637 (2009) to 16,660 (2014).
In the current year, till the end of June, it has received about 9,700 cases, according to information provided by the in-charge FSL director to the High Court.
Staff strength is clearly inadequate, but what is more alarming is that the FSL lacks the amenities to store samples. Those maintaining the samples are not qualified either, according to a source.
“Since samples are not preserved properly, accuracy may suffer in results because of ecological factors,” the source told Express.
The forensic psychology section in Bengaluru has not been functioning since February 2009 even though 386 references are pending. Brain mapping (polygraph) has been completely stopped for want of qualified staff.
With the increasing numbers, five Regional Forensic Science Laboratories (RFSL) were established at the five police ranges — Mangaluru, Davangere, Belagavi, Kalaburagi and Mysuru — but this has only been of limited help.
They only have biology, toxicology, forensic psychology and photography sections.
A DNA centre and cyber forensics unit were established in Bengaluru, with skeletal staff being deputed for them from the other divisions of FSL in the city.
Of the total 283 sanctioned posts at the Directorate of FSL, 96 are lying vacant. Waiting to be filled are the posts of director (1), deputy director (4), scientific officers (15), scientific assistants (31), section superintendents (3) and drivers (9).
According to the in-charge director’s report, hiring proposals are under different stages of consideration.
According to a statement, 2,188 cases plus 13,052 articles are pending for examination at the FSL and RFSLs as of June 15. In Bengaluru, 1,575 cases plus 9,414 articles are pending. It includes 134 cases of toxicology, 131 of biology (stains), 503 of DNA, 22 of firearms, 261 of chemical analysis and 440 of questioned documents.
Why Cases Aren’t Cracked
At present, crime scene work is being handled by technical staff attached to the FSL headquarters in Bengaluru and the Regional FSLs.
The authorities say it is impossible, in the current set-up, for forensic experts to visit every crime scene in the state, as requested by the police. Delays are common.
The FSL wants a total of 34 work units to be distributed among the 29 districts and five police commissionerates, and has sent an expert committee report to the government in this connection. The Home Ministry has approved the proposals in toto and is awaiting Finance Department concurrence.