UGC NET Forensic Science: Unit 1
Forensic Science: Definition, History & Development, Scope, Ethics in Forensic Science
1. Definition of Forensic Science
Forensic Science is the application of scientific principles and techniques to solve crimes and resolve legal issues. It involves the examination, analysis, and interpretation of physical evidence for use in criminal and civil investigations.
Key Concepts:
- The term "forensic" is derived from the Latin "forensis", meaning "of the forum" (related to public debate or court of law).
- Forensic science bridges the gap between science and law.
- It is grounded in the principles of objectivity, accuracy, reproducibility, and legality.
2. History and Development of Forensic Science
A. Ancient and Pre-Modern Contributions
| Period | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Ancient China (1248 AD) | Song Ci wrote Hsi Duan Yu – the earliest known forensic textbook |
| Ancient India | References to fingerprint use and toxicology in Kautilya's Arthashastra |
| Ancient Rome and Greece | Early ideas of pathology, witness testimony, and crime scene documentation |
B. Modern Milestones (Chronological Summary)
1784
First recorded use of physical evidence (paper fragment) in a criminal trial
1835
Bullet comparison using striations by Henry Goddard
1879
Development of Anthropometry (body measurements) by Alphonse Bertillon
1892
First scientific fingerprint classification system by Sir Francis Galton
1901
Discovery of human blood groups by Karl Landsteiner
1910
Establishment of the first forensic laboratory (Lyon, France) by Edmond Locard
1923
First police crime lab in the USA (LAPD)
1984
Discovery of DNA fingerprinting by Sir Alec Jeffreys
C. Forensic Science in India
| Year | Development |
|---|---|
| 1904 | First chemical examiner's laboratory in Madras |
| 1952 | Establishment of Central Fingerprint Bureau |
| 1957 | First Central Forensic Science Laboratory (Calcutta) |
| 2002 | Directorate of Forensic Science Services (DFSS) established under Ministry of Home Affairs |
3. Scope of Forensic Science
Forensic science is multidisciplinary and applied in both criminal and civil matters.
A. Major Branches of Forensic Science
Forensic Biology
Analysis of blood, hair, saliva, semen, tissues
Forensic Chemistry
Identification of drugs, explosives, chemicals
Forensic Toxicology
Study of poisons, alcohol, and drug metabolism
Forensic Ballistics
Analysis of firearms, bullets, GSR (Gunshot Residue)
Questioned Document Examination
Handwriting, ink, paper, forgery detection
Forensic Anthropology
Study of bones and human remains
Forensic Odontology
Identification through dental evidence
Digital Forensics
Recovery and analysis of digital data
Forensic Entomology
Study of insect activity on corpses
Forensic Psychology and Psychiatry
Behavioral analysis, mental state evaluation
B. Practical Scope
- Crime Scene Investigation
- Evidence Collection and Preservation
- Laboratory Analysis
- Courtroom Testimony
- Disaster Victim Identification
- Environmental and Wildlife Forensics
- Insurance and Fraud Investigations
- Counter-terrorism and Cybercrime Analysis
4. Ethics in Forensic Science
Ethics ensure integrity, objectivity, and accountability in forensic practice.
A. Core Ethical Principles
Objectivity
Findings must be based solely on evidence, without bias
Confidentiality
Sensitive case information must be protected
Competence
Experts should work within their scope of knowledge and skill
Impartiality
Avoid influence from law enforcement, lawyers, or media
Integrity
No falsification, suppression, or manipulation of evidence
Disclosure
Must report limitations or uncertainties in findings
B. Ethical Challenges in Forensic Practice
- Fabrication or suppression of evidence
- Pressure from police or prosecutors
- Biased expert testimony
- Media influence and public statements
- Withholding exculpatory information
C. Guidelines and Bodies
- National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)
- ISO/IEC 17025 standards
- Code of Ethics by forensic professional bodies (e.g., AAFS, IAI)
5. Key Definitions and Concepts
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Chain of Custody | Legal documentation of evidence handling from collection to court presentation |
| Expert Witness | A specialist who provides opinion evidence based on expertise |
| Physical Evidence | Any tangible object relevant to a criminal investigation |
| Locard's Exchange Principle | "Every contact leaves a trace" – foundational to crime scene investigation |
6. UGC NET Forensic Science Practice Questions
Q1. Who is known as the "Father of Forensic Science"?
Q2. The first use of fingerprint classification was made by:
Q3. Which of the following ethical principles is violated when a forensic expert offers opinion beyond their expertise?
Q4. The first forensic science laboratory in India was established in:
7. Preparation Tips for UGC NET Forensic Science
Effective Study Strategies
- Study the timeline of forensic developments (especially Indian context)
- Memorize branches and their applications with examples
- Focus on definitions, principles, and ethical codes
- Use flowcharts and tables for quick revision
- Practice MCQs based on case scenarios (ethics, lab roles, expert testimony)
