State plans 9 more automated FSLs to strengthen crime probe

Patna: Bihar govt has planned to increase the number of forensic science laboratories (FSLs) from four to 13, ensuring faster and more accurate evidence analysis, and making crime investigation more scientific and effective. With new labs and advanced automation, the state aims to transform its investigative framework within the next two years.According to DGP Vinay Kumar, under the new criminal law, FSL teams must visit crime scenes for cases carrying sentences of seven years or more—a significant shift from the current practice, where only about 10,000 out of 40,000–50,000 serious cases receive forensic support. The state has already initiated the process of setting up new FSLs and recruiting staff, with a goal to make all 13 laboratories fully automated within the next 1–2 years.The DGP said, “Until 2013, only one forensic science laboratory was operational in Patna. Over the years, the number increased to four, located in Patna, Muzaffarpur, Bhagalpur, and Nalanda. In 2021, a notification for regional FSLs was issued, setting a target to establish nine more laboratories at range headquarters and district levels.”He added that the process of building construction, manpower arrangement, procurement of modern equipment, and recruitment of approximately 200 contractual personnel has been completed. In the next 1–2 years, all 13 forensic science laboratories in the state will be functional and fully automated.“An MoU was signed last year to open a National Forensic Science Lab to strengthen investigations and research in complex criminal cases. Additionally, considering the rising number of cybercrimes, an MoU was signed to establish two cyber forensic labs in districts. One state-of-the-art cyber lab was inaugurated at the Economic Offences Unit (EOU) premises in 2025,” the DGP said.He further stated that preparations for capacity enhancement of forensic science laboratories have been completed recently, and the impact will soon be visible on the ground. All work on the Purnia Regional FSL has been completed, and it will be fully automated from February 1. The DGP added that the target is to start establishing a new Regional FSL every 3–4 months.