Faster Justice Through Forensics: How Investment in Infrastructure Could Transform Criminal Investigations

Raish Ahmed Laali

India’s criminal justice system has long struggled with a fundamental challenge—delays in investigations and weak evidentiary foundations. In this context, the Union government’s announcement to establish a forensic university or a Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) in every state by 2029 is not merely an administrative decision, but a significant structural intervention in the justice delivery system. With a proposed investment of ₹30,000 crore, the initiative signals a clear shift toward placing “evidence-based justice” at the centre of policymaking.

At a time when the nature of crime is rapidly evolving—ranging from cybercrime and digital fraud to organised crime and terrorism—traditional policing methods alone are no longer sufficient for effective investigations. Forensic science is no longer just a supporting tool; it has become the backbone of modern criminal investigation. In this light, the plan to expand the number of Central Forensic Science Laboratories from seven to 15, and to strengthen regional labs across states, is not just desirable but necessary.

One of the most crucial aspects of this initiative is its focus on forensic education and human resource development. The way the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) is being developed as a globally competitive institution reflects India’s ambition to emerge as a “knowledge power.” With targets of educating 35,000 students by 2029, achieving 100% placement, signing hundreds of international MoUs, and generating dozens of patents, these figures indicate that forensic science is no longer a niche specialisation—it is rapidly becoming a mainstream career pathway.

However, the real test of this ambitious plan will lie in its implementation on the ground. Constructing buildings and laboratories alone will not suffice. What India needs are independent, professional, and politically insulated forensic institutions whose reports can be trusted by courts without hesitation. Equally important is the need to train police forces and prosecution agencies across states to properly understand and use forensic evidence.

The Home Minister’s promise of “justice within three years” can only become a reality if forensic reports are timely, reliable, and standardised. Otherwise, the dream of faster investigations will remain confined to policy documents. Expanding forensic infrastructure can indeed accelerate justice—but only if quality, transparency, and accountability are treated as top priorities.

In sum, this investment in forensic infrastructure has the potential not only to strengthen India’s justice system but also to position the country as a global forensic hub. The question is no longer whether this move was necessary—it is whether we can seize this opportunity with integrity and purpose.