Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL)
A Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) is a specialized facility where scientific techniques
are applied to analyze evidence from criminal investigations. These laboratories play a crucial
role in the criminal justice system by providing objective, scientific analysis to help solve
crimes, identify suspects, and support legal proceedings.
Objectives of FSL
1. To analyze evidence collected from crime scenes scientifically.
2. To assist police and judiciary in criminal investigations.
3. To identify victims, suspects, and cause of death in criminal cases.
4. To maintain integrity and chain of custody of evidence.
5. To train law enforcement officers in forensic evidence handling.
6. To conduct research in the field of forensic science and toxicology.
Departments Commonly Found in FSL
• Chemical and Toxicology Division
• Biology and Serology Division
• Physics/Trace Evidence Division
• Ballistics/Firearms Division
• Documents and Fingerprints Division
• Digital Forensics Division
Functions of a Forensic Science Laboratory
1. Crime Scene Analysis Support
o Receive and examine physical evidence collected from crime scenes, such as
blood, hair, fibers, or weapons.
2. Chemical and Toxicological Analysis
o Detect and identify drugs, poisons, alcohol, or other chemicals in biological
samples (blood, urine, tissues).
3. Biological Analysis
o DNA profiling for identification of individuals.
o Serological tests on body fluids.
4. Physical Evidence Examination
o Analyze fingerprints, footprints, tire marks, tool marks, and firearms.
o Ballistics examination to match bullets or firearms.
5. Document and Fingerprint Examination
o Handwriting analysis, signature verification, and document forgery detection.
o Latent fingerprint detection and comparison.
6. Digital Forensics
o Recovery and analysis of data from computers, mobile phones, or electronic
devices to track criminal activity.
7. Expert Testimony in Court
o Scientists from the laboratory may testify as expert witnesses to explain
findings in legal proceedings.
Work Procedure in FSL
1. Collection of Evidence – Collected by police or forensic experts at the crime scene.
2. Sealing and Labeling – Evidence is properly sealed, labeled, and documented.
3. Submission to FSL – Evidence is sent to the forensic lab with a forwarding note.
4. Registration – Each case is given a unique number for tracking.
5. Analysis – Evidence is examined using scientific instruments and methods.
6. Report Preparation – Experts prepare a detailed analysis report.
7. Expert Opinion in Court – Forensic experts may testify regarding their findings.
Importance of FSL
• Provides scientific and objective evidence in criminal cases.
• Helps in identifying offenders and exonerating innocent individuals.
• Assists in determining cause of death and type of poison in toxicology cases.
• Plays a major role in combating cybercrimes and terrorism.
• Strengthens the criminal justice system through reliable scientific support.
Examples of FSLs in India
• Central Forensic Science Laboratories (CFSL):
Located in Hyderabad, Kolkata, Chandigarh, Pune, Bhopal, and Guwahati.
• State Forensic Science Laboratories (SFSL):
Each state has its own FSL, e.g., Kerala FSL in Thiruvananthapuram.
• Regional Forensic Science Laboratories (RFSL) and District FSLs operate under
the state FSL.
