The Government Examiners’ Laboratory in Calcutta was the first of its kind in India, established to support criminal investigations by analyzing evidence such as documents, weapons, and other physical traces.
It played a crucial role in helping authorities establish the science of forensic examination, which became integral to law enforcement.
Following the establishment of the first laboratory, forensic science expanded across India with additional laboratories set up in major cities:
- Madras (now Chennai, Tamil Nadu)
- Bombay (now Mumbai, Maharashtra)
- Lahore (now in Pakistan)
- Agra (Uttar Pradesh)
Currently, India has seven central forensic science laboratories spread across various cities, providing critical support in criminal investigations:
- Hyderabad (Andhra Pradesh)
- Kolkata (West Bengal)
- Chandigarh (Union Territory)
- New Delhi (National Capital Territory)
- Guwahati (Assam)
- Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh)
- Pune (Maharashtra)
The central forensic science laboratories in India play an essential role in analyzing forensic evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, ballistics, document examination, and chemical analysis.
These labs support law enforcement agencies in solving crimes, identifying suspects, and providing scientific evidence in courts of law.
The laboratories use cutting-edge technology to conduct advanced forensic analysis, making significant contributions to the criminal justice system.
Over the years, these forensic science laboratories have made significant progress in modernizing their methods, incorporating fields such as digital forensics, cybersecurity, biotechnology, and molecular biology to stay ahead of evolving criminal activities.
The laboratories work closely with police forces, judicial authorities, and legal professionals to ensure that scientific evidence is correctly interpreted and applied in criminal trials.
The forensic science laboratories in India are now recognized globally for their contributions to the investigation of complex crimes and their involvement in international criminal justice initiatives.
The Government Examiners’ Laboratory in Calcutta, established in 1853, was the first step toward the development of organized forensic science in India.
The subsequent expansion of forensic laboratories across India, with the present-day seven central forensic science labs, has significantly advanced the country’s capability to solve crimes using scientific methods and forensic evidence.
