Law varsity launches programme on latest trends in forensic science

The Himachal Pradesh National Law University (HPNLU), Shimla, has begun a week-long Faculty Development Programme on “Current Trends in Forensic Science: Legal Education and Administration of Justice.” The programme is being organised by the Centre for Criminology and Forensic Science (CCFS) at HPNLU in collaboration with the State Forensic Science Laboratory, Junga, and will run from November 10 to 15.

The inaugural session was graced by Prof (Dr) Nishtha Jaswal, Vice-Chancellor of Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar Law University, Jaipur, and Prof (Dr) Meenakshi Mahajan, Director of the Directorate of Forensic Services. The event saw participation from senior faculty, eminent dignitaries, forensic experts, scholars and attendees from across the country.

The chief guest, Prof Jaswal, spoke on the intrinsic relationship between science and law, highlighting the constitutional dimensions that regulate the use of forensic techniques in investigation and trial. She underlined the need to balance advanced scientific methods — such as DNA profiling, brain mapping, narco-analysis and polygraph tests — with the protection of fundamental rights and individual dignity.

Addressing the gathering, Prof Mahajan said the collaboration between the Directorate of Forensic Services and HPNLU represents an important step toward bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in forensic science.

HPNLU Vice-Chancellor, Prof Priti Saxena, noted the growing significance of forensic science in the effective administration of justice. She said the integration of forensic expertise into legal education is not merely academic but an urgent requirement in contemporary jurisprudence. She stressed scientific investigation and legal interpretation must operate together to ensure fairness, accuracy and constitutional compliance.

Participants would be addressed by a distinguished panel of resource persons from reputed national and international institutions. The programme is being organised by Dr Ruchi Sapahia, Chairperson of the Programme and Director of the Centre for Criminology and Forensic Science.