FORENSIC SCIENCE:

Divisions Of Forensic Science Labs And Their Contribution In

Crime Investigation

SUBMITTED BY: SUBMITTED TO:

MIHIR SINGH DR. SHAIFALI DIXIT
1120202174 ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF
LAW
BBA LLB
HIMACHAL PRADESH
9th SEMESTER
NATIONAL LAW
UNIVERSITY, SHIMLA.

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DECLARATION

I hereby declare that the assignment entitled “Divisions Of Forensic Science Labs And
Their Contribution In Crime Investigation” submitted by me to Himachal Pradesh
National Law University, Shimla is a record of Bonafede project work carried out by me,
Mihir Singh, under the guidance of Dr. Shaifali Dixit. I further declare that the work reported
in this project has not been submitted and will not be submitted, either in part or in full, for
the award of any other degree or diploma in this institute or any other institute or university.

Mihir Singh

Date: 09-11-2024

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

CONTENT PAGE NO.

INTRODUCTION 4
DIVISIONS OF FORENSIC SCIENCE 5
LABORATORIES
PHYSICS DIVISION 6
CHEMISTRY DIVISION 8
BALLISTICS DIVISION 10
BIOLOGY DIVISION 11
SEROLOGY DIVISION 13
TOXICOLOGY DIVISION 14
DOCUMENTS DIVISION 16
CONCLUSION 18

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INTRODUCTION

Forensic science and law are interrelated. One is complimentary to the other as both cannot
survive without one another. Forensic science is associated with the application of science to
unearth the well-designed conspiracies not only in the traditional offences of rape, robbery,
dacoity, murder but also in white collar crimes like money laundering, corruption, scams,
human trafficking, etc. It is also helpful in investigation and detection of computer crimes,
computer frauds etc.

The word forensic is derived from a Latin term ‘forensis’ which means something pertaining
to forum, related to courts of law, discussions, and debates in public related to laws. In Rome,
forum was the meeting place where civic and legal matters used to be discussed by those with
public responsibility.

Forensic means two things:

1. To bring evidence before the forum or court of law, in classical times.

2. Scientific evidence in the form of comparisons and scientific findings applied to the
law, in modern times.1

It is presumed that forensic science is the only branch of science which takes all branches of
science to common man and helps the criminal justice system which in turn tries to provide a
crime free society for common man to live in. Forensic science uses the Basic principles of
all physical and natural sciences and has evolved many domains of its own which include
Anthropometry, Fingerprints, Ballistics, Hand writing, Computer, DNA, Brain Mapping,
Narco-Analysis, Polygraphy etc.2 The basic sciences are associated with forensic science in
the name of forensic as Forensic Biology and Serology, Forensic Chemistry, Forensic
Physics, Toxicology, Odontology, Forensic Psychology, Forensic DNA, Forensic Engineering
and Cyber Forensics. These branches provide a full proof scientific aid to criminal justice
system.

Therefore, for achieving the objectives of justice delivery system it is essential to know the
intentions and the purposes or objects of the wrong doer. In order to solve any case, it is
essential to create a chain of events it is essential to link the crime with the criminal, the
criminal with the victim, the victim with the scene of crime, the criminal with the scene of the

1
Modi’s Medical Jurisprudence and toxicology, K.Mathiharan and Amrit K. Patnaik, LexisNexis, Buttersworth,
2010, p.05.
2
http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/forensic_science

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crime and the forensic techniques provides all these links so that justice can be delivered. It is
only with the scientific techniques that it is possible to determine with certainty that it is only
him and no one else who is involved in the commission of the crime or he is an innocent
person not to be charged.3

Role of Forensic Science:

Forensic science has a paramount role in the detection of crime. Wherever a crime is
committed, the suspect inadvertently leaves on the crime spot some clues which are helpful in
bringing a criminal charge against him. If some clues are wasted or damaged, the suspect
shall not be caught under the clutches of law. So, immediately after the commission of crime,
paramount care is to be taken by the police so that these clues may not be destroyed by
anyone else. In many situations, the suspect destroys these clues to protect himself from the
criminal charge. So, all proofs, clues, materials which are directly or indirectly connected
with the accused should be preserved cautiously so that they are not destroyed or damaged in
any way. Thus, basic knowledge of preservation of clue materials and information to the
police may be regarded as a basic necessity

DIVISIONS OF FORENSIC SCIENCE LABORATORIES

They are also involved in academic activities, like, research work in forensic science,
teaching forensic science to forensic science students, police trainees. public prosecutors and
judges. Forensic Science experts appear in Courts to explain and prove their findings. The
facilities offered by the forensic science laboratories in different States are not uniform. The
basic structure of forensic science laboratories in the Centre and the States consists of
functional divisions as follows:

1. Physics Division
2. Chemistry Division
3. Ballistics Division
4. Biology Division
3
Medical Jurisprudence and Toxicology (law practice and procedure), KS Narayan Reddy, ALT Publications,
2006, pg.09.

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 5. Serology Division
6. Toxicology Division
7. Documents Division

The services provided by these divisions, clearly indicate the scope of forensic science in
India:

PHYSICS DIVISION

The Physics Division in forensic science laboratories in India is dedicated to examining

physical evidence that includes a wide array of materials, such as glass, soil, tool marks,
metals, paints, and other trace elements that may be found at crime scenes. These types of
evidence are often categorized as physical trace evidence and can be crucial in solving cases
involving break-ins, vehicle accidents, violent crimes, and more. The division utilizes
advanced physical and chemical techniques to analyse the properties and compositions of
materials, often connecting crime scene evidence to specific sources or persons.

Responsibilities and Techniques of the Physics Division

1. Glass Fragment Analysis: One of the primary tasks is analyzing glass fragments
found at crime scenes, such as in cases of break-ins or vehicle collisions. The Physics
Division can determine the type of glass (e.g., window, automotive, or bottle glass) by
examining its physical properties, like refractive index and density. 4 This analysis
helps determine if the glass found on a suspect matches the glass from the crime
scene, which can link suspects to the location of a crime.

2. Soil Analysis: By comparing the physical and mineral properties of soil samples from
a crime scene to those found on suspects, forensic experts can establish connections
between a suspect and the location of a crime, especially in outdoor crime scenes.
Techniques like X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) 5 help
identify the composition and structure of soil particles.

3. Tool Mark Analysis: Tool marks—impressions left by tools on surfaces—can be

valuable forensic evidence, particularly in cases of forced entry. The Physics Division
4
U.N. Institute of Crime & Forensic Science, Forensic Applications of Refractive Index in Criminal Investigations,
12 Indian J. Crim. Investigation 42, 47 (2020).
5
R. Prasad & K. Venkatesh, Soil Analysis in Forensic Science: Applications and Techniques, 16 J. Indian Forensic
Research 85, 89 (2021).

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 employs comparison microscopes and profilometers to examine and compare tool
marks found at crime scenes with those produced by a suspect's tools.6

4. Paint and Fiber Examination: In hit-and-run cases, paint and fibres can be
transferred between a vehicle and a victim or object. The Physics Division analyzes
paint chips and fibre samples by examining their colour, layer structure, and chemical
composition through techniques like spectroscopy and microscopy.

5. Physical Match Analysis: Often called fracture match analysis, this technique is used
when pieces of an object, like glass or metal, are broken during a crime. The Physics
Division can analyze the edges and patterns of broken objects, such as glass fragments
from a shattered window or pieces of metal from a forced lock, to determine if they
originated from a common source.

Contributions of the Physics Division in Criminal Investigations

The Physics Division significantly enhances the investigative process by providing

scientifically backed evidence that can be presented in court. Here are some examples of its
contributions:

 Linking Suspects to Crime Scenes: By analyzing trace elements like soil or glass,
the Physics Division can establish connections between suspects and crime scenes.
This linkage is particularly valuable in cases where direct evidence, such as
eyewitness testimony, may be unavailable.

 Reconstructing Crime Scenes: The division aids in the reconstruction of events,

which can clarify how a crime occurred. For example, in hit-and-run cases, matching
paint chips found at the scene to a suspect’s vehicle can help investigators understand
the sequence of events leading to the accident.

 Providing Objective Evidence: The Physics Division offers objective, science-based

evidence that can withstand scrutiny in legal proceedings. By presenting analysis that
connects material evidence to suspects or crime scenes, it strengthens the case for
prosecution or defence, ensuring a fairer judicial process.

 Preventing Miscarriages of Justice: Physical evidence analyzed by the Physics

Division can either incriminate or exonerate suspects. In cases where a suspect’s guilt

6
N.K. Sharma, Tool Mark Analysis in Indian Criminal Investigations, 24 J. Forensic Sci. & Criminology 112, 114
(2020).

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 is in question, physical evidence like soil or tool marks may provide critical insights
that prevent wrongful convictions.

CHEMISTRY DIVISION

The Chemistry Division plays a critical role in criminal investigations, as it provides insights
into cases where chemical substances are involved, such as poisoning, drug trafficking, arson,
and explosions. Using advanced chemical techniques, this division examines unknown
substances, determines their composition, and assesses how they may have contributed to a
crime. The division’s findings help link suspects to illegal substances, determine causes of
death, and verify whether controlled substances were involved.

Responsibilities and Techniques of the Chemistry Division

1. Drug Analysis: One of the primary responsibilities of the Chemistry Division is to

analyze illicit drugs and controlled substances, including narcotics, hallucinogens,
stimulants, and prescription drugs.

2. Explosives and Fire Debris Analysis: Forensic chemists in this division also analyze
explosive residues and fire debris. In arson and bombing investigations, they examine
materials for the presence of accelerants (e.g., gasoline, kerosene) or explosive
compounds (e.g., TNT, RDX).

3. Poison and Toxic Substance Analysis: In cases of suspected poisoning, the

Chemistry Division tests biological samples (e.g., blood, urine, stomach contents) for
the presence of toxic substances, including pesticides, heavy metals, and other
poisons. This analysis is crucial in homicide investigations where toxic substances
might be used as a weapon.

4. Paint and Ink Analysis: The Chemistry Division can analyze paint and ink samples
in cases involving document forgery, vandalism, or hit-and-run incidents. Paint
samples from vehicles involved in accidents can be compared to those from the scene
to link a suspect’s vehicle to a crime. Similarly, ink analysis can detect alterations in
documents, such as forged signatures or counterfeit currency.

5. Environmental and Industrial Pollutant Analysis: This division also examines

pollutants, such as chemical spills, that could be part of environmental crimes.

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 Forensic chemists analyze soil, water, or air samples to detect contaminants or toxic
substances, helping authorities determine the source of pollution.

Contributions of the Physics Division in Criminal Investigations

The Chemistry Division significantly contributes to criminal investigations by providing

detailed analyses of chemical evidence, supporting law enforcement in understanding the
nature and origin of various substances. Here are some key contributions:

 Identifying Cause of Death in Poisoning Cases: The Chemistry Division’s analysis

can confirm or rule out poisoning as a cause of death, identifying specific toxic agents
responsible. This evidence is particularly crucial in homicide cases involving poison
or overdose, where direct physical evidence may not be available.

 Supporting Drug-Related Investigations: By analyzing controlled substances, this

division helps to confirm the presence of illegal drugs in a suspect’s possession or
body. In cases involving drug trafficking, the division’s reports can provide conclusive
evidence, helping law enforcement agencies curb the illegal drug trade.

 Reconstructing Crime Scenes in Arson and Explosives Cases: The Chemistry

Division’s analysis of fire debris and explosives helps reconstruct arson and bombing
crime scenes. By identifying accelerants or explosive compounds, investigators can
determine if a fire was accidental or intentional, and if explosives were homemade or
professionally manufactured.

 Preventing Document Fraud: In cases of forgery, ink and paper analysis by the
Chemistry Division can establish the authenticity of documents. This analysis is
instrumental in cases of contract fraud, check forgery, or counterfeit currency, helping
to authenticate or challenge the validity of written evidence.

 Supporting Environmental Crime Investigations: Forensic chemists play a role in

cases of environmental pollution, where illegal disposal of chemicals or industrial
negligence is suspected. Analysis of pollutants can link contaminants back to specific
industrial activities, supporting environmental regulatory agencies in prosecuting
offenders.

BALLISTICS DIVISION

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The Ballistics Division is tasked with the examination of firearms, bullets, cartridge cases,
gunshot residues, and shooting-related evidence to answer key questions in criminal cases.
This division helps determine the type of firearm used, whether a particular weapon fired a
specific bullet, and the circumstances surrounding a shooting. The Ballistics Division works
on a variety of cases, including homicides, assaults, accidental shootings, and armed
robberies.

Responsibilities and Techniques of the Ballistics Division

1. Firearm Identification: One of the primary responsibilities of the Ballistics Division

is identifying the type and model of a firearm used in a crime. Techniques like
comparison microscopy enable experts to match cartridge cases or bullets to a
specific firearm with high precision.7

2. Bullet and Cartridge Case Comparison: When a bullet or cartridge case is found at
a crime scene, ballistics experts can match it to a specific firearm by examining
microscopic striations and impressions left by the barrel’s rifling or the firearm’s
action.

3. Trajectory Analysis: In cases where the trajectory of a bullet is critical, ballistics

experts use trajectory analysis to reconstruct the bullet’s path. This involves
examining entry and exit points, angles, and distances.

4. Gunshot Residue (GSR) Analysis: GSR analysis is often performed on suspects or

crime scene evidence to determine if a person was in close proximity to a firearm
when it was discharged.

5. Distance Determination: In cases where the distance between the shooter and the
target is in question, the Ballistics Division performs distance determination tests.

Contributions of the Ballistics Division in Criminal Investigations

The Ballistics Division provides essential support to law enforcement by interpreting firearm-
related evidence, often providing the basis for key investigative conclusions. Here are some
notable contributions:

 Linking Firearms to Crime Scenes: By matching bullets and cartridge cases to

specific firearms, ballistics experts establish crucial links between weapons, suspects,

7
N.K. Raj, Firearm Toolmark Identification in Forensic Ballistics, 15 Indian J. Forensic Ballistics 113, 116 (2020).

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 and crime scenes. This can confirm whether a suspect’s weapon was used in a crime
and assist in tracing illegal firearms back to their origin.

 Reconstructing Shooting Incidents: The division’s ability to determine bullet

trajectory and shooting distances aids in reconstructing the sequence of events in
shooting incidents. This can clarify the positioning of the shooter and victim, helping
determine if a shooting was accidental or intentional, or if it was a case of self-
defence.

 Supporting Legal Proceedings: The Ballistics Division provides objective, scientific

evidence that supports prosecution or defence in court. Ballistic reports detailing
weapon matches, GSR findings, and trajectory analysis often play a crucial role in
supporting witness testimony and validating investigative claims.

 Preventing Miscarriages of Justice: Ballistics evidence can exonerate suspects by

proving that their firearm did not match the weapon used in a crime, or that they were
not in close proximity to a shooting. Conversely, it can provide irrefutable evidence of
involvement in criminal activity.

BIOLOGY DIVISION

The Biology Division examines various types of biological evidence that can be essential in
establishing connections between suspects, victims, and crime scenes. Forensic biologists
analyze biological materials at the microscopic and molecular levels to obtain information
relevant to criminal investigations. This division provides insights into the origins,
characteristics, and potential links of biological evidence in cases such as homicide, assault,
and sexual violence.

Responsibilities and Techniques of the Biology Division

1. DNA Analysis: DNA analysis is one of the most critical tasks of the Biology
Division. By extracting DNA from evidence like blood, hair, or saliva, forensic
experts can identify individuals through genetic profiling.

2. Bloodstain Pattern Analysis: Bloodstain pattern analysis helps investigators interpret

the type, velocity, and direction of blood spatters, aiding in the reconstruction of crime

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 scenes. Patterns left by blood can indicate the position and movements of a victim or
assailant, as well as the type of weapon used.

3. Identification of Bodily Fluids: Forensic biologists analyze bodily fluids like semen,
saliva, and sweat to detect the presence and distribution of fluids on evidence
collected from crime scenes.

4. Hair and Fiber Analysis: Forensic analysis of hair can provide information about an
individual’s species, race, and body region origin, while fibre analysis can link
suspects to crime scenes through clothing or upholstery fibres.

5. Entomological Analysis: In cases where a body is discovered after an extended

period, forensic biologists may use entomological evidence to estimate the post-
mortem interval (PMI) by studying insect activity on the body.

Contributions of the Biology Division in Criminal Investigations

The Biology Division plays a pivotal role in criminal investigations, often providing
definitive evidence that supports or refutes allegations. Here are some key contributions:

 Identifying Suspects and Victims: DNA analysis helps identify individuals with a
high degree of accuracy. In cases involving unidentified remains or missing persons,
forensic biologists can match DNA from remains to relatives, offering closure to
families and aiding in investigations.

 Linking Individuals to Crime Scenes: Biological evidence such as blood, hair, and
bodily fluids can link suspects or victims to crime scenes. This evidence often
corroborates other investigative findings, strengthening the case against suspects.

 Exonerating the Innocent: The Biology Division’s analyses can exonerate suspects
by proving the absence of their biological material at crime scenes. DNA testing has
been pivotal in overturning wrongful convictions, highlighting the division’s role in
ensuring justice.

 Reconstructing Crime Scenes: Bloodstain pattern analysis and entomological

evidence help forensic experts reconstruct events, determine timelines, and assess the
nature of the interactions between victims and assailants, providing invaluable
insights into the circumstances of a crime.

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SEROLOGY DIVISION

The Serology Division focuses on detecting, identifying, and analyzing bodily fluids, which
can offer substantial insights into criminal investigations. Forensic serologists work on
biological evidence, testing samples from crime scenes, suspects, and victims. They use
immunological and biochemical methods to detect the presence of fluids, establish
connections between individuals and crime scenes, and even contribute to the exclusion or
inclusion of suspects.

Responsibilities and Techniques of the Serology Division

1. Blood Typing and Grouping: One of the primary responsibilities of the Serology
Division is to determine blood types from evidence samples. Blood typing involves
classifying blood into groups (such as A, B, AB, and O) based on antigens present on
red blood cells.

2. Identification of Bodily Fluids: Forensic serologists conduct tests to identify fluids

like semen, saliva, and urine, which are commonly found at crime scenes in sexual
assault and violent crime cases.

3. Enzyme and Protein Analysis: By analyzing enzymes and proteins in bodily fluids,
forensic serologists can differentiate samples, narrowing down the pool of suspects.

4. Bloodstain Pattern Analysis: Although primarily the domain of forensic biology,

serologists can assist in bloodstain pattern analysis, especially in cases involving
multiple blood sources. By interpreting bloodstains, serologists help reconstruct crime
scenes, determining the position and movements of individuals involved.

5. Preliminary DNA Analysis: While DNA analysis is typically carried out in the DNA
Division, the Serology Division often performs preliminary tests to confirm the
presence of sufficient DNA material in bodily fluid samples.

Contributions of the Serology Division in Criminal Investigations

The Serology Division provides crucial support in criminal investigations by revealing

relationships between biological evidence and individuals involved in a crime. Here are some
of the key contributions:

 Establishing Physical Links: By identifying bodily fluids and their sources, the
Serology Division links suspects or victims to crime scenes or each other. This type of

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 evidence is especially critical in sexual assault cases, where the detection of semen or
saliva can corroborate testimonies and support legal arguments.

 Excluding or Including Suspects: Blood typing and enzyme analysis can include or
exclude individuals from a pool of suspects, providing direction for investigators.
Even when DNA is not available, serological evidence can help narrow down
potential suspects, often leading to faster resolutions in investigations.

 Reconstructing Events: Bloodstain pattern analysis aids in crime scene

reconstruction, helping investigators determine the sequence of events, such as
whether a bloodshed event involved self-defence or intentional harm. This analysis
can clarify the role of each party involved in the crime, supporting or challenging
statements made by suspects or witnesses.

 Providing Objective Evidence in Court: Serological evidence is highly regarded in

the judicial system as it provides objective, scientifically validated information that
can support or refute claims made by the defence or prosecution. The presence of
bodily fluids or blood group matching adds weight to the forensic evidence presented
in court.

TOXICOLOGY DIVISION

The Toxicology Division is responsible for the scientific analysis of toxins, which includes
testing for a wide range of substances such as poisons, drugs (prescription, illicit, and over-
the-counter), alcohol, heavy metals, pesticides, and other toxic agents. Forensic toxicologists
analyze biological samples from suspects, victims, and crime scenes, utilizing advanced
instrumentation to detect and measure toxic substances. Their work often involves
interpreting results to determine the cause of death, assess impairment, or establish a
connection between toxic substances and criminal activity.

Responsibilities and Techniques of the Toxicology Division

1. Analysis of Poisons in Homicides and Suicides: The Toxicology Division frequently

investigates cases involving intentional or accidental poisoning. Samples such as
blood, urine, stomach contents, and tissues from victims are analyzed to detect toxic
agents.

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 2. Drug Testing in Substance Abuse Cases: In cases involving drug abuse or
overdoses, forensic toxicologists test for narcotics, stimulants, hallucinogens, and
other controlled substances.

3. Alcohol Testing in DUI Cases: One of the most frequent tasks for the Toxicology
Division is analyzing blood and breath samples for alcohol levels in DUI (driving
under the influence) cases.

4. Post-Mortem Toxicology: Toxicologists are also involved in post-mortem

investigations to determine the cause of death when foul play is suspected. In such
cases, the analysis is extended to various body tissues and fluids to identify toxic
agents that may have contributed to death.

5. Environmental and Occupational Toxicology: The division also assesses

environmental toxins in cases of industrial poisoning or pollution-related incidents.
This includes testing for heavy metals (like lead, mercury, and cadmium) or hazardous
chemicals that might affect public health.

Contributions of the Toxicology Division in Criminal Investigations

The Toxicology Division’s contributions to criminal investigations are essential for providing
objective, scientific evidence regarding the role of toxic substances in criminal cases. Here
are some notable contributions:

 Determining Cause of Death: In cases where poisoning is suspected, toxicology

reports are often essential for establishing the cause of death. This evidence is critical
in homicide or suicide investigations, helping investigators confirm or rule out
poisoning as the cause.

 Identifying Impairment: In DUI and drug-related cases, toxicologists provide

evidence on the level of impairment of the individuals involved. This evidence is
often presented in court to establish that a suspect was under the influence, supporting
charges related to impaired driving or drug-related criminal activity.

 Linking Substances to Suspects or Crime Scenes: The presence of specific toxic

substances can link a suspect to a crime, as certain substances may leave unique

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 chemical signatures. Toxicologists can trace these signatures back to specific sources,
connecting substances found on a suspect to those at a crime scene.

 Corroborating Witness Testimony: Toxicology findings often support or challenge

witness statements regarding substance use or exposure. For example, in cases where
suspects deny intoxication, BAC or drug screening results can provide objective
evidence of impairment.

 Supporting Environmental Crime Investigations: In cases where environmental

hazards lead to toxic exposure, forensic toxicologists contribute by detecting and
quantifying contaminants, assisting in cases of corporate negligence or industrial
accidents.

DOCUMENT DIVISION

The Document Division's expertise is applied to a range of documents, from handwritten

letters and typed materials to banknotes and official certifications. Forensic experts in this
division use scientific methods to validate or challenge the authenticity of documents and
identify fraudulent activity. Their analysis often involves scrutinizing the physical and
chemical aspects of documents, detecting erased or altered content, and examining
handwriting and signature authenticity.

Responsibilities and Techniques of the Document Division

1. Handwriting and Signature Analysis: One of the main responsibilities of the

Document Division is to analyze handwriting and signatures to verify authorship or
identify forgery. Forensic experts compare characteristics like letter formation,
pressure, spacing, and slant to determine if a signature or handwriting sample matches
a known sample

2. Detection of Alterations, Erasures, and Additions: This division often examines

documents to identify any modifications, such as erased text, altered figures, or added
content.

3. Ink and Paper Analysis: Forensic document examiners analyze the chemical
composition of inks and the physical properties of paper to determine the age or origin
of documents.

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 4. Examination of Printed Documents: In cases of counterfeit currency, falsified
certificates, or forged documents, the Document Division assesses the printing
techniques and materials used.

5. Deciphering Obliterated and Charred Documents: In some cases, documents may

be partially destroyed by fire or rendered illegible by smudging or overwriting.
Forensic document examiners use specialized equipment to enhance or decipher
obliterated content.

Contributions of the Document Division in Criminal Investigations

The Document Division’s analysis of questioned documents provides critical insights in

investigations, often serving as decisive evidence in both criminal and civil cases. Here are
some key contributions of the division:

 Uncovering Forgery and Fraud: By examining signatures, handwriting, and

document authenticity, the Document Division helps expose cases of fraud, forgery,
and identity theft. This analysis can determine if a signature has been falsified, a will
has been tampered with, or a document has been altered, providing crucial evidence in
financial crime cases.

 Identifying Counterfeit Documents and Currency: The division’s expertise in

analyzing print patterns, ink, and paper materials is instrumental in detecting
counterfeit currency, falsified certificates, and other fake documents. This plays a
significant role in cases involving financial fraud and counterfeiting operations.

 Supporting Legal Disputes: The Document Division’s services are often used in
civil cases involving contested wills, deeds, contracts, and other legal documents. By
verifying or disputing the authenticity of such documents, forensic examiners help
resolve property disputes, inheritance claims, and other legal conflicts.

 Assisting in Crime Scene Investigations: In criminal investigations, documents may

serve as critical evidence linking suspects to crimes. This can include ransom notes,
threatening letters, or any written material found at a crime scene. Forensic document
analysis can confirm or exclude potential suspects based on handwriting analysis.

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  Deciphering Hidden Information: The division’s ability to recover erased, indented,
or obliterated text can reveal hidden information crucial to investigations. In cases
where suspects attempt to destroy evidence, such as burning or erasing documents,
forensic examiners’ skills in restoring information provide valuable leads.

CONCLUSION

The diverse divisions within India’s Forensic Science Laboratories (FSLs) are integral to
modern criminal investigations, providing specialized expertise that strengthens the justice
system. Each division, from Biology and Serology to Toxicology and Document Forensics,
addresses unique evidence types and applies scientific rigor to uncover truth and connect
evidence to suspects. By analyzing biological samples, chemical substances, firearms,
physical and electronic evidence, FSLs help solve complex cases ranging from violent crimes
and cyber fraud to environmental and wildlife-related offenses.

DNA profiling and fingerprint analysis, for instance, remain powerful tools for establishing
identity, while cyber forensics adapts to the growing prevalence of digital crimes. In cases
involving terrorism or organized crime, the Ballistics and Explosives divisions play pivotal
roles in understanding and mitigating threats. Through document examination and forensic
psychology, FSLs also assist in verifying authenticity and understanding criminal behaviour,
further aiding law enforcement. Altogether, the forensic divisions serve as critical pillars of
India’s legal system, enabling swift, accurate investigations that uphold the law and ensure
fair justice. This structured forensic framework continues to evolve, embracing new
technologies and methodologies to tackle a broadening spectrum of criminal challenges
effectively.

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