Forensic Evidence in Legal Cases: Aiding Justice, Not Hindering Survivors
During a recent training workshop in Goa, former Additional Solicitor General of India, Pinky Anand, emphasized the importance of forensic evidence in legal proceedings, particularly in cases of sexual and gender-based violence. She argued that forensic practices should bolster cases without imposing an additional burden of proof on survivors. This workshop, held on August 22, aimed to refine the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for handling forensic evidence in incidents of sexual assault, rape, and child abuse.
The workshop brought together a diverse group of professionals, including police officers, prosecutors, judicial officers, and medical practitioners, all focused on a victim-centered approach to investigations. Participants discussed the need for treating survivors with dignity and ensuring evidence is collected following due process. The sessions also addressed practical aspects of collecting, preserving, and presenting forensic material in court.
Standard Operating Procedures: A Pillar for Justice
The SOPs, first introduced by Anand on April 26 of the previous year at the Police Headquarters in Panjim, were expanded to encompass child abuse cases. They aim to ensure forensic evidence can withstand legal scrutiny through disciplined procedural practices. Anand stressed that forensic evidence, which can disappear rapidly, must be meticulously handled to remain viable in court. She cited the 2010 Supreme Court case, Santosh Kumar Singh v State, to illustrate the critical role of proper evidence handling in securing convictions.
Justice Neela Gokhale of the Bombay High Court, also present at the workshop, highlighted the essential role of standardized forensic procedures. Inspector General of Goa Police, K R Chaurasia, emphasized that these SOPs are grounded in the principles of equality before the law and fairness in procedure, essential for fair investigations.
Collaboration Among Stakeholders
Goa Director General of Police, Alok Singh, underscored the necessity of collaboration among police, medical professionals, civil society, prosecution, and the judiciary to enhance forensic evidence collection and victim response. Dr. Keshav Kumar, former DGP of Gujarat, and Dr. Robert Green OBE, Professor of Forensic Sciences, facilitated the workshop under Anand’s chairmanship.
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Anand concluded that the science of forensics remains robust, but the discipline surrounding its application often falters. SOPs are designed to close this gap, ensuring that evidence withstands cross-examination and supports justice without burdening survivors.
