Mini forensic science lab, training centre in Wardha gets state nod

Nagpur: The state cabinet approved setting up of a mini forensic science laboratory, a fully equipped residential training centre, and a special excellence centre for mobile forensics in Wardha in a bid to secure more convictions related to prohibition cases for which speedy chemical analysis of samples are needed.Wardha has been a "dry" district since 1975, and between 2014 to 2024 the conviction rate in prohibition related cases was a mere 1.31%. Guardian minister and MoS (home) Pankaj Bhoyar said, "Chemical analysis reports of seized liquor and related material play a crucial role in securing convictions. At present, samples from Wardha are sent to the regional forensic laboratory in Nagpur, which also handles cases from Nagpur city and rural, Bhandara, and Gondia. With four districts dependent on one laboratory, reports are often delayed, a dedicated facility in Wardha was necessary to ensure speedy examination of seized samples and modern technologies used by offenders."After a proposal was placed before CM Devendra Fadnavis, who also handles the home dept, officials were directed to start working on the plan. Bhoyar said, "After this the directorate of forensic science laboratories in Mumbai submitted a proposal to the additional chief secretary (home). And now the state cabinet has also approved it, which will provide a big boost to the conviction rate in prohibition cases in Wardha."The new laboratory in Wardha will have 67 sanctioned posts, including 1 deputy director, 2 assistant directors, 2 assistant directors for cybercrime and audio analysis, 6 assistant chemical analysts, 8 scientific officers, 9 scientific assistants, 10 scientific assistants for cyber and audio analysis, and supporting administrative and technical staff. For now, the lab will begin operations from a building in police quarters on Arvi road, till it shifts to the proposed five acre facility approved by the govt.BOX2014 to 2024Prohibition related case registered: 93,554Cases disposed of: 51,340Acquittal: 50,666Conviction: 674