In a move to rectify the systemic deficiencies in the Forensic Science Laboratories (FSLs) of Punjab and Haryana, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has called for the immediate implementation of the comprehensive recommendations proposed by the expert committees. Central to these recommendations is the establishment of an independent directorate for the FSL, to be headed by a full-time director and an additional director.

It told states to implement key reforms

This court directs both Punjab and Haryana to consider the implementation of the recommendations (proposed by the specialized committees) with utmost seriousness and urgency, taking all necessary steps to ensure their timely and effective implementation. Justice Manjari Nehru Kaul, Punjab and Haryana High Court

The restructuring aims to strengthen the autonomous decision-making process and ensure the efficient transmission of forensic reports, thus supporting the fundamental right to a speedy trial, as enshrined in Article 21 of the Constitution.

“This court directs both Punjab and Haryana to consider the implementation of the recommendations with utmost seriousness and urgency, taking all necessary steps to ensure their timely and effective implementation,” said Justice Manjari Nehru Kaul.

Recognizing the seriousness of the issue, the court on February 29 constituted committees comprising three IAS officers and three IPS officers each for both Punjab and Haryana. The committees were charged with the responsibility of identifying the “fundamental administrative and technical causes underlying delays in the preparation and dispatch of FSL reports”.

In addition to the establishment of the independent directorate, the committees requested the implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) specific to each division within the FSL. The Committees made it clear that the recommendation will ensure consistency and efficiency of operations, SOPs aligned to meet the minimum performance targets set by the Centre.

The committees also referred to the need for optimized use of the budget, proposing that the Director of the FSL be endowed with increased financial powers to speed up procurement processes to help minimize delays in the preparation of forensic reports and ensure justice in useful time.

Justice Kaul observed that the committees advised prompt facilitation of recruitment processes and temporary employment of short-term contract staff to support smooth operations and address staff shortages.

“To alleviate staff shortage, the committees have recommended prompt facilitation in joining and training of selected candidates. Regular follow-ups with state service commissions and staff selection boards are essential to speed up the recruitment process,” observed Justice Kaul.

To streamline court proceedings, the committees recommended minimizing the physical presence of forensic officers in court, allowing them to provide evidence via video conference.