Frame SOP To Avoid Unnecessary References To Forensic Labs In Criminal Cases: High Court To Centre, Delhi Govt
The Delhi High Court has recently directed the Union and Delhi Governments to take a decision on framing a standard operating procedure (SOP) or guidelines to avoid unnecessary references being made to the forensic science laboratories (FSLs). A division bench comprising Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Anish Dayal directed the Union of India and Delhi Government to take a decision...
The Delhi High Court has recently directed the Union and Delhi Governments to take a decision on framing a standard operating procedure (SOP) or guidelines to avoid unnecessary references being made to the forensic science laboratories (FSLs).
A division bench comprising Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Anish Dayal directed the Union of India and Delhi Government to take a decision within three months.
The Court disposed of a PIL filed by a doctor, highlighting the concerns in respect of clogging of FSLs due to alleged unmindful and indiscriminate references being made by doctors performing post-mortem examination.
It was his case that FSLs are not only flooded with such references, but the same also causes unnecessary delay in examination of samples which are urgently needed.
He submitted that such a delay ultimately causes delay in the dispensation of criminal justice in Courts, as it results in delayed completion of investigation by the investigating agencies.
The Court noted that the petitioner doctor had already filed a representation to the Union and Delhi Governments on the issue on March 29 and directed that the same be considered by both the authorities.
“…and after due consideration, an informed decision shall be taken, and if possible, some kind of Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) or guidelines shall also be issued to avoid unnecessary references being made to FSLs,” the Court said.
Title: DR. SUBHASH VIJAYRAN v. UNION OF INDIA & ORS.