Why are Maharashtra’s forensic labs struggling to keep pace with casework? | Explained
Why are 55,000 forensic cases pending in Maharashtra? How does it affect trials, and what is the government doing about it?
Maharashtra's forensic laboratories are struggling to keep up with casework due to a significant backlog and capacity constraints. As of September 1, 2023, nearly 55,000 cases were pending, with the Cyber division and Tape Authentication and Speaker Identification (TASI) accounting for nearly three-quarters of the backlog. The Cyber division received 685 new cases in August and reported 254, leaving 29,666 cases pending as of September 1.
Similarly, the TASI division began the month with 9,616 pending cases, received 265 more, and reported 115, leaving 9,766 pending. Across all divisions, Maharashtra's forensic backlog fell by 1,922 cases during August. However, the backlog remains concentrated in certain forensic disciplines, particularly Cyber cases, which face delays due to manual processes.
To address this, the department is implementing automation through a Semi-Automated Pendency Removal Project for Cyber Forensics. The project uses a centralized platform for case registration, chain-of-custody verification, and automated analysis of digital devices. DFSL is also expanding its capacity by adding 220 contractual posts specifically for the Cyber and TASI divisions, with the recruitment process expected to be completed by October 15.
Additionally, the state government has approved a revised staffing structure, increasing the sanctioned strength of DFSL by 1,275 posts, which will take the total to 2,761. The department is also investing in physical infrastructure, with a new laboratory expected to be operational soon in Amravati and another in Kolhapur.
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