Forensic labs to be set up in every district of state
In a major push to improve forensic efficiency and reduce investigative delays, the Haryana Police are setting up District Forensic Science Laboratories (DFSLs) in every district across the state. The initiative, spearheaded by Director General of Police (DGP) Shatrujeet Kapur and Director, FSL Haryana, OP Singh, aims to decentralise forensic operations and streamline evidence handling for law enforcement.
The DFSLs will act as district-level hubs for receiving and processing forensic evidence collected by investigating officers. Currently, police personnel must travel to the central Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Madhuban, Karnal, or to regional FSLs in Hisar, Gurugram, Rohtak, and Panchkula. The new labs will reduce this burden by allowing district-based deposit and secure transfer of case materials by DFSL staff.
“These DFSLs will function as the front desks of FSL Haryana,” said OP Singh. “The primary goal is to decentralise the workload of FSL Madhuban while improving access and turnaround time for forensic services.”
In addition to handling physical evidence, each DFSL will also be equipped with a range-level voice sample collection and analysis lab, along with a cyber data analysis unit. Until now, cyber forensic samples were sent to Panchkula, often leading to delays. “Voice samples will now be collected and analysed at the range level, saving crucial time,” Singh added.
“The FSL Haryana plays a vital role in helping police solve crimes through scientific methods,” Singh explained. “Whether it’s fingerprint analysis, fake document examination, mobile phone testing, or substance analysis — our tools help find the truth. The accuracy and timeliness of FSL reports ensure fair judicial decisions and support safer communities.”
The labs will also offer expert consultations to assist police in complex investigations. Karnal has already established its DFSL on the first floor of the Civil Lines building, which has started partial operations and will be fully functional soon.
Karnal SP Ganga Ram Punia said, “The DFSL will significantly save time and resources while ensuring the security and integrity of evidence.”
Dr Ajay Kumar, Deputy Director-cum-Nodal Officer (Scene of Crime), FSL Haryana, said in the first phase, 15 DFSLs are being set up, with remaining districts to follow. “Each DFSL will have branches for dispatch, evidence collection, and storage — monitored 24/7 through CCTV,” he said.
Kumar emphasised the introduction of barcoding for all samples to ensure a secure chain of custody. “This system guarantees accountability and prevents tampering during evidence transfer,” he said.
Haryana Tribune