Internship report
Workflow, Process and Protocols in
Chemistry Division
Submitted to: - Prof. Dr. Umema Ahmed
Submitted by:- Nidreshika Kakoti
Roll no:- 22BSC2FSO58
Introduction to the Chemistry Division
During my enriching and educational internship at the Forensic Science Laboratory
(FSL) in Moradabad, I was privileged to work within the Chemistry Division, a
cornerstone department in the lab's operation. This division holds a pivotal role in
the criminal justice system, offering essential scientific insights that assist law
enforcement agencies in solving crimes. The division is tasked with analyzing
physical evidence involving a wide variety of chemical substances. It is equipped
with advanced instrumentation and operated by a team of dedicated forensic
scientists, whose meticulous work contributes to fair and accurate investigations.
The primary mission of this division is to provide reliable and timely scientific
support that upholds the legal process and facilitates the administration of justice.
The Chemistry Division's environment is professional, research-intensive, and
detail-oriented. Every step, from the receipt of samples to the issuance of final
reports, follows a strict procedural framework designed to maintain scientific
integrity and legal admissibility. I observed how critical precision, documentation,
and unbiased scientific interpretation are in the field of forensic science. These
values were consistently upheld by the staff, offering me a practical understanding
of how chemistry and law intersect in real-world applications.
Overview of the Chemistry Division
The Chemistry Division at FSL Moradabad specializes in the examination and
identification of various chemical-based evidences submitted by law enforcement
authorities. This includes, but is not limited to, the analysis of narcotic drugs,
psychotropic substances, alcoholic content in biological specimens, residues of
explosives, fire debris, and chemical evidence involved in trap or bribery cases.
Each type of evidence has a specific analytical protocol associated with it,
involving preliminary screening, confirmatory tests, and detailed reporting.
I witnessed firsthand how methodical and disciplined the workflow is in this
division. The laboratory operates under standardized guidelines and international
best practices, ensuring that each sample is examined without bias and with utmost
scientific rigor. The division utilizes a combination of classical wet chemistry
methods and modern instrumental techniques such as Gas Chromatography (GC),
High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Fourier-Transform Infrared
Spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV-Visible Spectrophotometry for accurate results.
Types of Cases Received
During my tenure at the Chemistry Division, I encountered a wide spectrum of forensic cases,
each with unique challenges and requirements. The major categories of cases handled include:
1. Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Cases: These cases involve the analysis of
suspicious powders, tablets, crystals, or plant material suspected to be illegal drugs.
Substances such as Ganja, Heroin, Cocaine, Methamphetamine, MDMA, and synthetic
cannabinoids are commonly submitted for testing. The lab performs presumptive color
tests followed by confirmatory analysis using Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) and
instrumental methods like GC-MS.
2. Alcohol and Intoxication Cases: Blood and urine samples are analyzed to determine the
level of alcohol concentration in cases of drunk driving, accidents, or alcohol-related
offenses. Gas Chromatography is primarily used to quantify ethanol levels and determine
if the levels exceed the legally permissible limits.
3. Trap Cases (Bribery and Corruption): These cases typically involve the analysis of
currency notes or items suspected to have come into contact with phenolphthalein powder
or similar chemicals used during anti-corruption raids. The lab tests for the presence of
chemicals on evidence using colorimetric reactions that provide qualitative confirmation.
4. Fire and Arson Cases: Residues collected from fire scenes are analyzed to detect the
presence of accelerants like petrol, kerosene, or diesel, which could suggest deliberate
ignition. Headspace analysis and solvent extraction techniques are used, followed by
instrumental analysis.
5. Explosives Analysis: In cases involving bomb blasts or suspected explosive devices, the
Chemistry Division examines debris for explosive residues. Techniques like spot tests for
nitrates and nitrites and instrumental methods like Ion Chromatography and GC-MS are
employed to identify the type and source of explosive material.
Workflow and Protocols
The workflow in the Chemistry Division follows a systematic and scientific approach. The steps
are designed to ensure the integrity of the evidence, reliability of the results, and maintain the
chain of custody. The standard workflow includes:
1. Receiving of Evidence: Upon submission by investigating officers, the evidence is
received under proper documentation. A case file is initiated, and unique identification
numbers are assigned.
2. Marking of Evidence: Each piece of evidence is labeled with unique codes to maintain
traceability. Marking is done carefully to avoid contamination or damage.
3. Formulation of Worksheet: A worksheet is prepared for every case, documenting all
stages of analysis, including test performed, reagents used, instrument settings,
observations, and results.
4. Case Opening: Evidence is opened in the presence of authorized personnel under a
controlled environment. Necessary precautions are taken to prevent loss or
contamination.
5. Examination and Analysis: This involves a series of chemical and instrumental tests
specific to the type of case. For instance, preliminary color tests, microcrystalline tests,
and spectroscopy are employed.
6. Formulating Result Report: After analysis, findings are compiled in a comprehensive
forensic report. The report is reviewed and signed by a competent authority before being
dispatched.
7. Dispatch of Evidence along with the Report: The original evidence along with the
official report is sent back to the concerned agency or court under sealed cover.
Protocols in the Chemistry Division
1. Evidence Handling Protocol: Ensures secure transfer, labeling, storage, and
documentation of evidence to prevent tampering or contamination. The chain of custody
is rigorously maintained.
2. Sample Preparation Protocol: Samples are prepared under clean and controlled
conditions using calibrated glassware and standardized solutions to maintain analytical
consistency.
3. Instrument Calibration Protocol: Instruments are regularly calibrated using certified
reference materials. Logs are maintained to verify the calibration status before analysis.
4. Quality Control Protocol: Includes running blanks, duplicates, and spiked samples to
validate the accuracy and precision of results.
5. Data Management Protocol: All data generated during analysis is securely stored in
both physical and digital formats, ensuring ease of access, auditability, and
confidentiality.
Key Learnings from the Internship
My internship experience at the Chemistry Division was intellectually rewarding and
professionally enriching. I acquired several important skills and insights that will aid my future
career in forensic science. The key learnings include:
A thorough understanding of the importance of maintaining a strict chain of custody,
from the point of evidence collection to reporting.
Hands-on familiarity with various chemical and instrumental techniques used in forensic
investigations.
Practical exposure to the working of advanced analytical instruments and their calibration
and maintenance routines.
Enhanced knowledge of standard forensic protocols and legal requirements for reporting.
Appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature of forensic science, combining elements of
chemistry, law, and ethics.
Realization of the critical responsibility carried by forensic scientists in ensuring that
justice is served through objective scientific analysis.
Conclusion
My internship at the Chemistry Division of the Forensic Science Laboratory, Moradabad, was a
transformative learning experience. It provided a deep insight into the vital role that forensic
science plays in modern criminal investigations. The structured workflow, adherence to scientific
protocols, and commitment to quality and integrity were highly inspiring. Working under the
guidance of experienced scientists helped me bridge the gap between academic knowledge and
real-world application. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an
esteemed institution, and I look forward to building on this experience in my academic and
professional journey ahead. This internship has not only strengthened my technical capabilities
but has also instilled in me a deeper sense of purpose and commitment to the pursuit of truth
through science.
