New forensic lab at Verna to quicken investigations: CM

Panaji: Chief minister Pramod Sawant, while speaking at an exhibition on the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), said that upgradation of the police department and the forensic laboratory at Verna will ensure efficient investigations and quicker closure of cases.

“The full-fledged forensic lab at Verna has been readied. It will be inaugurated in a few days. Over the last five years, we have upgraded the forensic department and made it well-equipped and with well-trained staff,” said Sawant. “Now, cases in Goa will be fast-tracked and this will give people justice faster.”

Sawant inaugurated the exhibition on the three new criminal laws in the presence of the DGP, IGP, director of prosecution, and senior officials at Kala Academy.

Sawant said that Goa stands first in the country to implement the new criminal laws, which is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the Goa Police.

The police, judiciary, directorate of prosecution, forensic science, medical, and prison departments have set up 10 stalls for the exhibition to showcase the entire criminal justice process, from filing of FIR to investigation, forensic analysis, prosecution, judicial proceedings, and postmortem, through engaging and artistic presentations.

Sawant said that the new criminal laws mark a shift towards a citizen-centric, transparent, and technology-driven justice system focused on speedy justice and victim empowerment.

He said that awareness is vital to ensure citizens understand their rights and evolving legal framework. “The forensic department used to be like a hidden department, with nobody paying attention to it,” said Sawant.