Ques - What is crime scene ....

_Introduction_:

Crime or criminal act can be stated as an act of misdemeanor, violating or

breaching the laws, which makes the offender or wrongdoer liable to the
punishment by the governing law. Criminal behaviour covers a wide range of
anti-social activities ranging from acts of violence i.e. killing of people,
robbery, theft, sexual offence, property related offences, forgery, cheating
and drugging peddling etc.Criminal acts of such nature falls outside the range
of social acceptance and anyone culpable of such offence and found guilty
has to face the punishments.
The term ‘Investigation’ is a systematic enquiry, an examination related to
some incidents and situations for the purpose of tracing required information.
Thus investigation involves whole examination and scrutiny of facts, traces of
information for complete investigation. An investigator is any person who is
involved in the whole enquiry or process of investigation.

What is crime scene investigation?*

Crime scene investigation is often the term relating to the process of
discovering, collecting of information, identifying of evidence associated with
the investigation of a criminal act or event. It is the systematic process of
documenting, collecting, processing and interpreting physical evidence
associated with the alleged crime scene, in an effort to conclude the truth
following the analysis of event in question. The study of crime scene therefore
is to identify, investigate and apprehending the guilty and present him before
the law.
Responding to a crime-scene is a very crucial step in the process of scientific
investigation of a case. Crime-Scene investigators and crime-scene specialists
are responsible for identifying, securing, collecting, and preserving evidence
which is handed over to the crime laboratory for further confirmation.

_Objectives of crime scene investigation_

* Determining whether a crime was committed or not
* Obtaining pieces of information and evidence through legal mode.
* Knowing modus operandi of the execution of crime.
* Identifying and eliminating the suspects as a result of testimonial evidence.
* Arresting of the prime suspect.
* Presenting it before the governing law.

_FUNCTIONS OF A CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATOR_

* Secure the scene of crime.
* Sketch, photograph, video recording.
* Obtain information in the form of physical evidence.
* Draw information from the witnesses and suspects.
* Search and Track the suspects, using the essential threads.
* Testify in the court.

_Types of methods_
*Grid Method (two parallel strip)*: It is just like the strip method; the only
difference is that two strips are considered to form a grid. Again, only two
people can do the searching walking through on separate strips and then will
switch their strips for the more accuracy. It is a good method for large indoors
and outdoors crime scenes.

*Wheel Search Method: *This method is only applicable to the lager

outdoor scenes like fields, desert, or other such open areas. It is like the zonal
method; however, the wheel is divided into various zones depending upon the
size of the crime scene. Different individuals will be employed in separate
zones and then switching their zone for more accuracy. The investigators or
the searchers can begin from the epicenter moving towards their zones to
complete the search, and then returning back to the epicenter for the
discussion or collection procedures.

*Random Search Method: *This is the most common method employed by

the investigators, because of the feasibility at any location. No above-
mentioned ruled to be followed for this method. It is also advisable to consider
this method on complex crime scenes.

*Spiral Method:* This is well suited for lager indoor and outdoor crime scene
with less obstacles (like furniture etc.). The searcher will start either from the
center of the room (outward) or from the periphery (inward) search as show in
the images below. Also, two investigators can search together, one moving
from the center towards the periphery and other one vice versa

Strip or Parallel Method: In this method the virtual strips or line are being
imagined to walk through on the crime scene and look for the evidences. The
method is well suited for the crime scene like class rooms, where rows are
present already, each row can be considered as a strip. Also, minimum
number of the personals are required for this method. One person will start
the walk through from one corner of the strip and will move towards the other
looking for the evidences. The walk through should be slow and thorough. If
two personals are employed, then each of them can start from two different
points and continuing to the different ends to double check the search.

_Types of searching_

*Indoor Crime Scene Searches:* It is generally recommended that at least

two officers search an indoor crime scene. This may best be accomplished by
dividing the room in half and having each investigator search half of the room
(also known as the quadrant or zone-search method). At the conclusion of the
search, the investigators switch halves. In this fashion, each half of the room
is searched twice.

*Outdoor Crime Scene Searches*

In most cases, the outdoor crime scene covers a broader area than those that
are indoor. If this is the case, more investigators are required. Accordingly,
with the increased size of the scene, a more systematic searching method
must be used. One way is to rope off the scene in to a grid.
Each square, averaging about 6 square feet, represents a specific search area
that is a manageable size for each investigator (also known as the grid search
method).

*Night time Crime Scene Searches*

If possible, investigators should wait until daylight to search a crime scene.
Obviously, circumstances may require investigators to proceed with the
search at night. These may include inclement weather or other emergency
circumstances. In the event that such a search is to be conducted, lighting
generators should be used to provide sufficient illumination for the search.

*Vehicle Searches*
The search of a vehicle requires the same degree of attention as indoor and
outdoor searches. Obviously, the nature of crime dictates the area of the
vehicle to be searched. For example, whereas a drug smuggling or murder
case requires closer examination of the interior of the vehicle; a hit-and-run
investigation necessitates examination of the exterior of the vehicle. Similar
to an interior search.
Ques -2 Historical background

The development of forensic science in India has been a gradual process,

shaped by the country's legal and law enforcement needs. It has grown
significantly over the decades, establishing itself as a key component of the
Indian criminal justice system. Here’s an overview of the development of
forensic science in India:

Early Beginnings (Pre-independence Era)

Early Forensic Applications: The roots of forensic science in India date back
to the colonial era. The British introduced several scientific methods for crime
detection, particularly in cases involving poisonings, which were common at
the time. Forensic toxicology became the earliest branch of forensic science
used in India.
First Forensic Science Laboratory: In 1904, under the British Raj, Dr.
Alexander Pedler was the first to use fingerprinting for identification in
criminal cases. This led to the establishment of the first formal forensic lab in
1906 in Calcutta (now Kolkata), one of the first of its kind in the world.

Post-Independence Expansion (1950s-1990s)

Growth of Institutions:After independence in 1947, the Indian government
recognized the importance of scientific crime detection methods. In 1952, the
Government of India established the Central Forensic Science Laboratory
(CFSL) in Kolkata under the Ministry of Home Affairs. Later, regional
laboratories were set up in Hyderabad and Chandigarh to meet the growing
demands of forensic services across the country.
Introduction of Specialized Services: As forensic science evolved, specialized
divisions such as forensic ballistics, chemistry, biology, and toxicology were
established within these labs. Fingerprint bureaus also became integral to
police forces across states.
Role in Legal Frameworks: During this period, forensic evidence began to be
formally recognized by the Indian judicial system. Courts increasingly relied on
expert forensic opinions in criminal cases, especially in post-mortem and
poisoning cases.

Modernization and Technological Advancements (1990s-present)

Emergence of DNA Profiling: The late 20th century saw the introduction of
more advanced forensic techniques, such as DNA profiling, which
revolutionized crime investigations. In 1999, India established its first DNA
Profiling Lab at the Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD) in
Hyderabad. DNA analysis has since played a crucial role in solving complex
criminal cases, including those related to sexual assault, murder, and
paternity disputes.
Digital Forensics: With the rise of cybercrimes in the 21st century, India has
developed expertise in digital forensics, which deals with electronic evidence
from computers, mobile devices, and other digital platforms. Specialized
digital forensic labs have been established to combat the growing challenges
posed by cybercrimes.
Forensic Psychology: India has also made progress in the area of forensic
psychology, particularly with the development of techniques like narco-
analysis, brain mapping, and lie detector tests. Although the admissibility of
these techniques in court has been a subject of debate, they have been used
extensively in high-profile criminal investigations.

Institutional and Legal Developments

Forensic Science Institutions:Various forensic science institutes, like the
National Institute of Criminology and Forensic Science (NICFS), were
established to train forensic scientists and law enforcement personnel. The
Gujarat Forensic Sciences University, founded in 2008, is one of the few
institutions globally dedicated to forensic science education and research.
National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB):Established in 1986, the NCRB
provides crime data and maintains records on criminals using advanced
forensic techniques. This database is crucial for investigative agencies.
Judicial Recognition and Law Enforcement Collaboration: Indian courts have
recognized the significance of forensic evidence in the delivery of justice. The
collaboration between law enforcement agencies and forensic experts has
been strengthened, improving the accuracy and speed of investigations.

Challenges and Ongoing Development

Resource Gaps:Despite the advancements, forensic science in India faces
challenges such as a shortage of qualified personnel, limited infrastructure,
and delays in forensic reporting, leading to backlogs in cases.
Policy and Legislative Frameworks: The DNA Technology (Use and
Application) Regulation Bill, 2019, aimed at regulating the use of DNA for
criminal investigations and civil disputes, is a step toward strengthening
forensic applications in India, although its passage has been slow.
Public-Private Collaborations: To bridge the resource gap, some states have
partnered with private forensic labs and universities. This has led to increased
capacity building and training programs for professionals.

The Future of Forensic Science in India

Integration with AI and Big Data:India is gradually adopting artificial
intelligence (AI) and big data analytics in forensic science, especially for
digital forensics, predictive policing, and biometric analysis.
Global Collaborations: Indian forensic institutions are also collaborating with
international agencies to adopt global best practices and enhance
technological capabilities.

Conclusion
The development of forensic science in India has evolved from rudimentary
methods to modern scientific techniques, with growing applications in various
fields of law enforcement and justice. While there is still much to be done in
terms of infrastructure and expertise, forensic science continues to play an
increasingly critical role in solving crimes and delivering justice in the country.

Ans 3 - crime scene tools

Crime scene investigation in India involves the use of various tools and
equipment, similar to international standards, to ensure thorough and precise
evidence collection. Some of the key tools and equipment used in crime
scenes in India include:

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Gloves, masks, and protective clothing: To avoid contamination of the crime
scene.
Footwear covers: To prevent the introduction of external particles or
contamination.

2. Evidence Collection Tools

Tweezers and forceps: For picking up small items like hair, fibers, or small
evidence.
Evidence bags (plastic and paper): Used to safely store collected evidence.
Glass vials and jars: For collecting liquid samples or biological materials.
Fingerprint lifting kits: Brushes, powders, and tapes to lift fingerprints from
surfaces.
Swab kits: For collecting biological samples such as blood, saliva, or other
bodily fluids.
Scissors, scalpels, and knives: Used for cutting or scraping materials like
clothing or dried blood.

3. Photography and Documentation

Cameras (DSLRs and high-resolution): To document the crime scene from
various angles.
Tripods and scales: To ensure accurate measurement and comparison in
photos.
Video cameras: For recording the entire crime scene walkthrough.
Crime scene sketching kits: Includes rulers, compasses, graph paper, and
pencils for making hand-drawn sketches of the scene.

4. Measurement Tools
Measuring tapes: For taking measurements at the scene.
Laser measurement tools: Used for more precise distance measurements.
Protractors and rulers: For angle and dimension measurements.

5. Latent Fingerprint Detection Tools

Fingerprint powder: Various colors depending on the surface.
Ninhydrin spray: Used for visualizing fingerprints on porous surfaces like
paper.
Cyanoacrylate fuming (Superglue fuming): For developing latent fingerprints
on non-porous surfaces.

6. Trace Evidence Collection

Vacuum devices: With filters for collecting trace evidence like fibers or dust.
Tape rollers: For lifting fibers, hair, and other trace evidence from surfaces.
Luminol spray: To detect latent bloodstains.

7. Forensic Light Sources (ALS)

UV light and laser light: Used for identifying bodily fluids, fingerprints, or fibers
that are not visible to the naked eye.

8. Blood and Biological Evidence Tools

Blood collection kits: Includes anticoagulants and preservatives for safe blood
collection.
DNA collection kits: For collecting DNA samples such as skin cells, blood, or
hair.

9. Chemical Testing Kits

Presumptive drug testing kits: For identifying possible narcotics at a scene.
Explosive residue detection kits: To detect traces of explosives.

10. Forensic Entomology Kits

Insect traps and jars
: Used to collect insects found at crime scenes, which can help determine the
time of death based on the stage of insect development.

11. Impression Evidence Collection Tools

Casting kits (dental stone or silicone compounds): For taking casts of
footprints, tire marks, or tool marks.
Electrostatic dust print lifters: To lift impressions from dust or fine particles on
surfaces.

12. Electronic Evidence Collection Tools

Faraday bags: For storing electronic devices (phones, computers) to prevent
data alteration.
Digital forensic kits: Includes devices for extracting data from computers,
phones, and storage devices.

13. Crime Scene Barrier Tape

Yellow or white crime scene tape: To cordon off the area and prevent
unauthorized access.

14. Autopsy Tools (forensic pathologists)

Scalpels, bone saws, and forceps: For conducting postmortems.
Body bags: To transport deceased persons from the crime scene to the
morgue.

15. Miscellaneous
Evidence labels and markers: To properly label collected evidence and mark
key spots at the crime scene.
Flashlights: To illuminate areas with poor visibility.
Metal detectors: For detecting metallic objects or hidden weapons.
These tools and equipment are used by crime scene investigators, forensic
experts, and law enforcement personnel in India to systematically collect,
document, and analyze evidence at crime scenes. The goal is to preserve the
integrity of the evidence for use in court and to aid in solving criminal cases.

Ques 1 short - crime scene

Ans 1
Crime scene investigation in India involves the use of various tools and
equipment, similar to international standards, to ensure thorough and precise
evidence collection. Some of the key tools and equipment used in crime
scenes in India include:
1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
* Gloves, masks, and protective clothing: To avoid contamination of the crime
scene.
* Footwear covers: To prevent the introduction of external particles or
contamination.
2. Evidence Collection Tools
* Tweezers and forceps: For picking up small items like hair, fibers, or small
evidence.
* Evidence bags (plastic and paper): Used to safely store collected evidence.
* Glass vials and jars: For collecting liquid samples or biological materials.
* Fingerprint lifting kits: Brushes, powders, and tapes to lift fingerprints from
surfaces.
* Swab kits: For collecting biological samples such as blood, saliva, or other
bodily fluids.
* Scissors, scalpels, and knives: Used for cutting or scraping materials like
clothing or dried blood.
3. Photography and Documentation
* Cameras (DSLRs and high-resolution): To document the crime scene from
various angles.
* Tripods and scales: To ensure accurate measurement and comparison in
photos.
* Video cameras: For recording the entire crime scene walkthrough.
* Crime scene sketching kits: Includes rulers, compasses, graph paper, and
pencils for making hand-drawn sketches of the scene.
4. Measurement Tools
* Measuring tapes: For taking measurements at the scene.
* Laser measurement tools: Used for more precise distance measurements.
* Protractors and rulers: For angle and dimension measurements.
5. Latent Fingerprint Detection Tools
* Fingerprint powder: Various colors depending on the surface.
* Ninhydrin spray: Used for visualizing fingerprints on porous surfaces like
paper.
* Cyanoacrylate fuming (Superglue fuming): For developing latent fingerprints
on non-porous surfaces.
6. Trace Evidence Collection
* Vacuum devices: With filters for collecting trace evidence like fibers or dust.
* Tape rollers: For lifting fibers, hair, and other trace evidence from surfaces.
* Luminol spray: To detect latent bloodstains.
7. Forensic Light Sources (ALS)
* UV light and laser light: Used for identifying bodily fluids, fingerprints, or
fibers that are not visible to the naked eye.
8. Blood and Biological Evidence Tools
* Blood collection kits: Includes anticoagulants and preservatives for safe
blood collection.
* DNA collection kits: For collecting DNA samples such as skin cells, blood, or
hair.
9. Chemical Testing Kits
* Presumptive drug testing kits: For identifying possible narcotics at a scene.
* Explosive residue detection kits: To detect traces of explosives.
10. Forensic Entomology Kits
* Insect traps and jars
: Used to collect insects found at crime scenes, which can help determine the
time of death based on the stage of insect development.
11. Impression Evidence Collection Tools
* Casting kits (dental stone or silicone compounds): For taking casts of
footprints, tire marks, or tool marks.
* Electrostatic dust print lifters: To lift impressions from dust or fine particles
on surfaces.
12. Electronic Evidence Collection Tools
* Faraday bags: For storing electronic devices (phones, computers) to prevent
data alteration.
* Digital forensic kits: Includes devices for extracting data from computers,
phones, and storage devices.
13. Crime Scene Barrier Tape
* Yellow or white crime scene tape: To cordon off the area and prevent
unauthorized access.
14. Autopsy Tools (forensic pathologists)
* Scalpels, bone saws, and forceps: For conducting postmortems.
* Body bags: To transport deceased persons from the crime scene to the
morgue.
15. Miscellaneous
* Evidence labels and markers: To properly label collected evidence and mark
key spots at the crime scene.
* Flashlights: To illuminate areas with poor visibility.
* Metal detectors: For detecting metallic objects or hidden weapons.
These tools and equipment are used by crime scene investigators, forensic
experts, and law enforcement personnel in India to systematically collect,
document, and analyze evidence at crime scenes. The goal is to preserve the
integrity of the evidence for use in court and to aid in solving criminal cases.

Ques 2 Short - Scope

Ans 2

Scope of Forensic Science in India:

Forensic science has become an essential component of the justice delivery
system now. The law enforcement agencies are utilizing the field of forensics
to the utmost level. This is because it has helped in solving the cases in less
duration and hence ultimately helps in reducing the number of cases the legal
system of India is dealing with.

In a recent interview, Union Home Minister, Amit Shah revealed that India will
require at least 90 thousand forensic scientists in the upcoming 9 years. Of
this fact, it can be speculated that the scope for such professionals is growing
only and it will reach the level sky in the upcoming few years. The legal
agencies require such professionals because the Centre will integrate forensic
science with the justice system to ensure faster justice delivery and to
increase the conviction rate.

High Demand: Since there is no relief in the number of crimes being

committed there is a requirement of solving these crimes as well. And here
the scope of forensic science comes into the picture. There is high demand for
these experts and it is not going to fade away ever because investigators will
always need such professionals.
Multiple Career Opportunities: These professionals get to choose from a range
of career options like crime scene investigator, DNA analysis, Forensic
Ballistics Investigator, and Forensic Pathologists, Forensic Psychiatrists, etc.
Create Unique Identity: Since these experts play an important role in the
justice delivery system of our country, they have their charisma. They are
known as specialists in the crowd of investigators.
Cognitive Simulation: Since crime investigations require such experts to pay
attention to each small detail, they need to be critical thinkers and required to
pay due attention to the case. This develops the expert qualities in forensic
scientists which are fruitful for them for their career.

Ques 3 short - evidence type

Ans 3
In forensic examinations in India, evidence is collected from crime scenes,
suspects, victims, or related environments to assist in criminal investigations.
The types of evidence that can be collected include:
1. Physical Evidence
* Fingerprints: Collected from surfaces like glass, metal, or wood. Techniques
like dusting or chemical fuming can reveal latent fingerprints.
* Footprints and Tire Tracks: Can be collected using casting methods or by
taking photographs for analysis.
* Weapons: Knives, guns, or any tools used in the commission of a crime are
collected for ballistic or forensic analysis.
2. Biological Evidence
* Blood, Semen, and Saliva: Collected from the crime scene, victim, or
suspect. DNA analysis is performed to match or identify individuals.
* Hair and Skin Cells: These are examined for DNA or structural features that
can link individuals to crime scenes.
* Tissues or Bones: In cases of violent crime, biological tissues may be
examined for identification or cause of death.
3. Trace Evidence
* Fibers and Threads: Clothing fibers, carpet threads, or other small pieces of
fabric may link a suspect to the crime scene.
* Glass Fragments or Paint Chips: Collected from hit-and-run accidents or
break-ins and examined for comparison.
* Soil or Dust: Collected to analyze the geographical origin or trace back to a
particular location.
4. Digital Evidence
* Hard Drives, USBs, and Computers: Digital devices are examined for data
related to the crime, such as communication records or financial information.
* Mobile Phones: Messages, call logs, and location data are analyzed to
establish the timeline and movement of suspects.
* CCTV Footage: Video recordings can provide crucial evidence of the crime or
suspects involved.
5. Chemical Evidence
* Drugs and Narcotics: Collected during raids or found at the crime scene for
chemical analysis.
* Poisons or Toxic Substances: Often collected in cases involving poisoning or
chemical exposure. The analysis can determine the nature and source of the
substance.
6. Ballistic Evidence
* Firearms: Collected from crime scenes for forensic analysis to match bullets
or cartridges with specific weapons.
* Bullets and Cartridges: These are analyzed for unique markings to trace
them back to the weapon used.
7. Documentary Evidence
* Handwritten Documents: Analyzed for handwriting analysis, forgery
detection, or identifying document tampering.
* Digital Documents: Emails, PDFs, and other electronic files are examined for
authenticity and content.
8. Toxicological Evidence
* Blood or Urine Samples: Collected to determine the presence of drugs,
alcohol, or other toxic substances in the body.
* Food or Drink Samples: In cases of suspected poisoning, these samples are
analyzed to detect toxins.
9. Forensic Odontology
* Dental Impressions: Used to identify victims or suspects by comparing bite
marks or dental records.
10. Forensic Entomology
* Insects or Larvae: In cases of decomposition, insects collected from the body
are analyzed to estimate the time of death.
11. Forensic Anthropology
* Skeletal Remains: Examined to determine identity, age, gender, and cause
of death, especially in cases involving long-term decomposition.
12. Forensic Psychology Evidence
* Behavioral Analysis: Expert reports or psychological evaluations are used to
determine mental health status or patterns that could indicate a criminal’s
motives.
All these types of evidence are essential in building a case in Indian criminal
investigations and are processed under strict legal and scientific protocols to
ensure accuracy and validity.

Ques 4 Short - Importance

Ans 4

The chain of custody is a critical process in forensic investigations, ensuring

the integrity and admissibility of evidence in court. It refers to the
documentation and handling process that tracks the collection, transfer,
analysis, storage, and presentation of evidence to prevent tampering or
contamination.
Importance of Chain of Custody in Forensic Evidence (including Digital
Evidence) in India:
1. Maintaining Integrity of Evidence
* The chain of custody ensures that the evidence collected from the crime
scene remains unaltered, untampered, and authentic.
* In cases where physical evidence like fingerprints, DNA, or digital evidence
(hard drives, mobile phones) is involved, maintaining the chain of custody
helps prove that the evidence presented in court is the same as what was
collected.
2. Legal Admissibility in Court
* For evidence to be admissible in Indian courts, it must be proven to be
reliable. A documented chain of custody ensures the evidence has not been
compromised, thus enhancing its credibility.
* If there is a break or discrepancy in the chain, it can lead to the evidence
being questioned, rejected, or inadmissible in court, which can weaken the
prosecution's case.
3. Prevention of Tampering and Contamination
* Forensic evidence, especially biological samples or digital data, can be
susceptible to tampering, contamination, or corruption.
* By maintaining a strict chain of custody, law enforcement ensures that the
evidence has been protected from unauthorized access, preventing
allegations of falsification or mishandling.
4. Accountability of Custodians
* Each individual who handles the evidence is documented in the chain of
custody record. This ensures that everyone who has interacted with the
evidence is accountable for its integrity.
* If there is any mishandling, the chain of custody helps trace back to the
responsible individual, enabling corrective actions and reducing the chances
of intentional or unintentional errors.
5. Documentation for Evidence Analysis
* The chain of custody serves as a record of all the procedures the evidence
has undergone, including laboratory analysis, transportation, and storage.
* It ensures that forensic experts can accurately interpret the findings,
knowing the conditions and circumstances under which the evidence was
collected and handled.
6. Ensuring Authenticity in Digital Evidence
* Digital evidence, like emails, CCTV footage, or data from a mobile phone,
can be easily altered or deleted. Therefore, ensuring a proper chain of custody
for digital evidence is crucial in proving that the data was not manipulated.
* In digital forensics, tools used to acquire and analyze digital evidence must
comply with legal standards. The chain of custody documents every transfer
of digital data from the original source to the final forensic analysis to ensure
authenticity.
* Metadata, such as timestamps, and hashes (digital fingerprints), are often
used to verify the integrity of digital evidence during every stage of its
handling.
7. Preserving Rights of the Accused
* A properly maintained chain of custody ensures that the rights of the
accused are protected by preventing false incrimination through tampered
evidence.
* It helps ensure a fair trial by demonstrating that the evidence has not been
compromised.
8. Enforcing Procedural Compliance
* In India, law enforcement agencies must comply with specific legal
procedures when collecting, handling, and submitting evidence.
* The chain of custody acts as a procedural safeguard, ensuring that
investigative agencies follow proper protocols in forensic and digital evidence
management. This helps in avoiding challenges based on improper evidence
handling during the trial.
Key Steps in Maintaining Chain of Custody for Forensic Evidence:
1. Collection: Detailed documentation (who collected it, time, and method) of
evidence collection at the crime scene.
2. Packaging and Labeling: Proper packaging, sealing, and labeling to prevent
contamination or tampering.
3. Transfer and Storage: Clear record of every transfer between individuals
(police, forensic experts, etc.) and how/where it was stored.
4. Analysis: Documentation of all forensic tests performed on the evidence,
including the names of analysts and the methodologies used.
5. Presentation in Court: Proper presentation of the evidence with
documentation to demonstrate the continuous chain of custody.
In summary, the chain of custody plays a crucial role in safeguarding the
authenticity and integrity of forensic and digital evidence in India. It ensures
that evidence remains untampered from the time it is collected until it is
presented in court, thereby upholding the legal standards required for fair and
just proceedings.