The All India Forensic Science Summit (AIFSS) 2025 on the “Role of Forensic Science in effective Implementation of New Criminal Laws and Combating Terrorism” is being organised by the National Forensic Sciences University under the aegis of Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. The summit is rooted in the growing necessity of forensic science within the criminal justice system, particularly in light of new criminal laws and the fight against terrorism. Forensic science is a significant component of contemporary investigative procedures as it adeptly combines scientific precision with legal examination. Yet, India continues to face considerable challenges in the growth and standardisation of forensic infrastructure and its application in forensic evidence before the courts of law. This reality underscores the need for a forum where experts come together to share intellectual dialogue to develop policy, introduce collaborative strategies, shape futuristic policies and secure joint solutions.
In recent decades, the crime patterns in India have significantly evolved, due to the ever increasing technological advancements and cross border- cartel operations. The crime activity in India have not only diversified in the severity of the crime, but also in various other domains such as that of digital crimes, cybercrimes, organized crimes, terrorism related crimes, systematic economic offences which transcend the geographical boundary of the country. In such sphere, the increase in the terrorism related cases pose a critical challenge, with terrorism groups employing advanced technologies, encrypted communications, sophisticated financial networking to execute the terrorist activities within the country. They increasingly use the cyberspace for the planning and execution of their immoral intentions.
This changing criminal conduct necessitates a robust forensic capability in the country which could go beyond the traditional forensic and investigative frameworks. In response, the introduction of the new criminal laws, i.e., the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023, marks a significant shift towards a legal framework that aligns more closely with the evolving needs of forensic professionals and law enforcement. These laws recognize emerging forms of modern crimes and establish legal provisions to combat them, creating a framework that is inherently connected to advancements in forensic science, thereby equipping the criminal justice system to effectively prosecute contemporary crimes.
The objectives of the summit extend beyond mere discussion. It aims to establish a strategic framework for advancing the future of forensic science capacity in India, especially in the sphere of combating terrorism in light of the new criminal laws. There is a pressing need to modernise and standardise forensic procedures, in order to secure uniform implementation to tackle terrorist activities in line with the international standards. At present, the forensic laboratories can significantly enhance their capabilities through strategic investment in modern technologically driven infrastructure, standardising forensic equipment across the nation, and by streamlining workflow management. The new criminal laws introduce robust investigative procedures that emphasize the integration of advance forensic techniques, such as digital forensics, data analytics, and real-time surveillance, which are essential for effectively addressing terrorism- related crimes. These new criminal laws also leverage cutting- edge forensic methodologies in the advanced investigative procedures to trace digital footprints and communication patterns, thereby improving the ability to gather and analyze evidence. By adopting these modern investigative procedures, the justice system will be better equipped to respond to the complexities of contemporary terrorism, ensuring a more effective and efficient approach to prosecution and prevention.
The AIFSS aims to evaluate the challenges that lie at the intersection of forensic science and the legal system. By a high-level engagement, the AIFSS aims to enhance the forensic capabilities, promote awareness within the judiciary in order to ensure that the robust pillar of truth and justice stands well together while addressing the unique challenges posed by the terrorist activities. This summit will see a confluence of expertise with a dialogical approach to lay the foundation for a more efficient, effective, reliable and a more standardised forensic justice system in India. This will eventually strengthen and empower the criminal justice system with a more resilient, responsive and a future ready justice system, eventually able to counter the modern tactics of the terrorist organisations.