Lucknow | A seminar on “The Role of Forensic Science in the New Criminal Laws” was organised under the aegis of the Central Bar Association, Lucknow, highlighting the growing importance of forensic science in the effective implementation of newly enacted criminal laws.
The seminar featured Dr G.K. Goswami, Founder Director of the Uttar Pradesh State Institute of Forensic Science (UPSIFS), Lucknow, as the chief speaker. In his address, Dr Goswami elaborated on the mandatory role of forensic experts in criminal investigations under the new legal framework.
The programme was inaugurated with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Justice Rajesh Singh Chauhan, Justice Rajeev Singh, Dr G.K. Goswami, and District Judge Malkhan Singh. Senior members of the Central Bar Association, including President Akhilesh Jaiswal and General Secretary Avneesh Dixit, honoured the dignitaries with shawls and mementoes.
Speaking as the chief guest, Justice Rajesh Singh Chauhan emphasised the need for continuous discussion and academic engagement on new laws. He said such seminars enhance the practical understanding of legal provisions among advocates and added that the initiative would certainly benefit members of the legal fraternity. He also stressed the importance of organising similar programmes in a series.
Justice Rajeev Singh described the seminar as a commendable initiative, stating that discussions on the role of forensic science under new criminal laws would prove highly beneficial for advocates. He also shared his personal association and memories linked with the venue.
In his keynote address, Dr G.K. Goswami said that under the new criminal laws, it has become mandatory for forensic experts to inspect crime scenes in cases involving punishment of more than seven years. Earlier, this responsibility was primarily handled by investigating officers. He highlighted the shift in crime patterns, noting that while crimes earlier occurred mostly on the streets, the present era has seen a sharp rise in digital and cyber crimes, including online fraud and financial theft. He urged citizens to exercise caution while sharing personal data to protect themselves from cyber criminals.
On the occasion, District Judge Malkhan Singh delivered a detailed lecture on Section 176(3) of the new criminal law framework, explaining its legal implications and procedural significance.
The seminar was conducted by Advocate Avneesh Dixit Hani, General Secretary of the Central Bar Association, who also expressed gratitude to all the judges, speakers, and advocates present in the auditorium for their participation and support.
