Survey on the Underutilization of Forensic Expertise in India: Examining the Dominance of Law Enforcement in Evidence Collection and Investigations

Forensic science can significantly enhance criminal investigation equity and accuracy. In India, though, forensic experts remain underutilized as case investigations are predominantly performed by law enforcement agencies. This article documents findings of a survey of 230 respondents half of them being forensic experts and other non-forensic respondents like law enforcers exhibiting a wide perceptual gap. While forensic experts emphasize the need for independent intervention so that objective outcomes would be achieved, police respondents strongly favor conventional investigation methods. Systemic barriers like training constraints, availability limitations, and formalization of processes also discourage effective integration of forensic science. The research highlights efforts at policy reform that accord forensic experts a more active role, thereby strengthening the credibility and objectivity of India’s justice system.