The Reliability of Forensic Techniques in India: What Every Forensic Professional and Aspirant Needs to Know

The field of forensic science is transforming at an accelerated pace. Still, the debate regarding the validity of some of the forensic tools, such as the infamous so-called lung float test and the widely criticised ‘wire-cut forensics examinations is at the forefront as far as criminal justice in the country is concerned. The renewed government or administration interest in forensic science and the introduction of new criminal law, which requires forensic investigation of serious crimes in the country makes it very important that forensic professionals and their students as well as policymakers are informed about strengths as well as limitations of the tools they are using on a daily basis.

What is so important about Reliability in Indian Forensics?

The conviction rate that India has as of now is 54%, which the government plans to make the highest globally, incorporating technology and forensic evidence at all points, i.e. crime scene to the courtroom. But forensic evidence reliability is usually in question because of obsolete equipment, uneven procedures, and professional training shortages.. A recent study titled, The Dark Side of Forensic Science: Issues and Pitfalls in India, showed that more than half of the forensic laboratories in India are facing the problem of outdated technology, and nearly 30% of the professionals have mentioned the importance of standardised routine and improved training. 

The Lung Float Test is Science or Speculation?

The lung float test is a classic example of a forensic method under scrutiny. Traditionally, it was used to determine whether a newborn was born alive (lungs will float) or stillborn (lungs will sink). However, this test has been criticised for its lack of scientific reliability. False positives or negatives can result from factors such as decomposition, artificial inflation, or disease. This test is increasingly regarded by modern forensic science as unreliable, and courts in India and in other countries are shifting to DNA and histopathology analysis, which are more definitive. 

Wire-Cut Examination Method

Reliability is also a questionable characteristic in regard to wire cut analysis. Forensic researchers study the ends of wires that have been cut to ascertain the tool used and whether it was tampered with. The reliability of wire-cut analysis is also debated. Forensic experts examine the ends of cut wires to determine the tool used and whether tampering has occurred. However, errors can arise due to tool wear, environmental factors, and subjective interpretation. The absence of standardised protocols and advanced visualisation tools increases the risk of misinterpretation, a challenge for many Indian laboratories due to limited resources..

It is in the realisation of these challenges that India is experiencing the transformation of the forensic community:

1. Compulsory Forensic: New statutes in criminal procedure demand investigation by forensics of every crime that threatens more than seven years' punishment, and therefore, dependability is even more essential than before.
2. Summits and Conferences: Events like the All India Forensic Science Summit (AIFSS) 2025 are bringing together experts to discuss policy, share best practices, and push for standardisation and technological upgrades.
3. Government Initiatives: The National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) is leading research, innovation, and training, while hackathons and collaborations with startups are fostering indigenous forensic technology.

Key huddles of Indian Forensics

• Outdated equipment: More than half of Indian laboratories use equipment that is past its prime, compromising the quality and speed of forensic analysis.
• Lack of uniform Protocols: Non-uniformity of methodologies gives rise to differences in the results among the states and even in the laboratories.
• Training Gaps: Most forensic practitioners are not privy to up-to-the-minute training, and particularly not to emerging digital-based and artificial intelligence-based methods.
• Legal and procedural obstacles: The body of law is lagging behind the current scientific developments, and thus, the strength of the forensic evidence in court is impacted by these challenges. 

Despite these difficulties, India is making progress, and the forensic science field in India is growing. India is blending computerised proofs, AI-enhanced comprehension, and real-time observation that are adding precision and effectiveness to forensic investigations. In high-profile cases in the past, digital and forensic evidence have led to a conviction in a record time of 23 days, indicating the potential of effective forensic practices.  Programs such as the Forensic Hackathon are developing a spirit of cooperation between labs, academia and industry to address practical issues.

What should the Indian Forensic Professionals and aspirants look into?

Attend summits and workshops to stay updated on legislative changes and the latest forensic techniques. Advocate for standard operating procedures in your laboratory or institution. Gain expertise in digital forensics, artificial intelligence, and modern methods that are replacing outdated tests like the lung float test. Always be transparent about the limitations of forensic techniques—scientific integrity is essential for justice.

Here’s how forensic science education in India is transforming:

• Exposure: The students and aspirants are more exposed to forensic science courses. Social media is playing a big role in this. 
• Demand: Earlier, the demand for forensic experts was less; however, with the advancement in technology, their demand has increased dramatically. 
• Salary: Due to the advent of AI in all sectors, the salary dip is concerning Indian youth. Thus, they are now seeking varied fields with high salary potential.
• Better education: Due to advancements in technology, learning has transformed, making knowledge accessible to anyone,  anywhere. 
• Courses in colleges: Unlike a few years ago, forensic science courses are offered in both government and private universities in India, leading students to pursue them. 

In short, forensic techniques are becoming reliable in India; however, they still face problems. India has the potential to deliver justice in the right manner and to all the citizens through the process of modernisation of equipment, standardisation of processes, and training of forensic professionals.