Himachal Pradesh to Enhance Forensic Capabilities with New District Units

Himachal Pradesh will establish six district forensic units to boost crime investigation efficiency, announced Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. The units will be set up in Hamirpur, Una, Sirmaur, Kullu, Kinnaur, and Lahaul-Spiti districts. The initiative aims to incorporate modern technology for timely and accurate crime report processing, thereby enhancing conviction rates.

The Himachal Pradesh government is set to enhance its forensic capabilities by creating six district forensic units statewide, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced on Tuesday. Speaking at the state's Forensic Sciences Development Board meeting, the Chief Minister stated that new forensic behavioural analysis and food forensic units would also be established to improve departmental efficiency.

The district forensic units will be built in Hamirpur, Una, Sirmaur, Kullu, Kinnaur, and Lahaul-Spiti, Sukhu confirmed. He emphasized the importance of integrating modern technology to shorten crime report processing times and proposed the implementation of a barcoding system for sample collection integrity. Such measures will enhance evidence accuracy and reliability, essential for effective case management and ensuring convicting the guilty in courts.

Highlighting the necessity of staff rationalization and addressing manpower shortages, Sukhu assured that vacant posts would be filled and four forensic vans provided for better case handling. Member Secretary Meenakshi Mahajan and Forensics Services Director informed the board that the state's Forensic Directorate now collaborates with Central agencies like the CBI, NIA, and ED, further extending its examination scope.

(With inputs from agencies.)