Punjab takes steps to modernise Forensic Science Authority
The field of forensic science in Punjab is undergoing significant changes. Under the leadership of Punjab's Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, steps are being taken to modernise the Punjab Forensic Science Authority (PFSA).
As part of this initiative, new labs will be established across the province, forensic science teams will be made more effective, and the use of modern technology in criminal investigations will be ensured.
In the ongoing fight against terrorism and serious crimes, Punjab has taken another major step. The provincial government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, has allocated Rs 8 billion in funds to modernise the Punjab Forensic Science Authority.
The funds will be used to establish new laboratories in the northern, central, and southern regions of the province, which will not only enhance the quality of investigations but also ensure effective prosecution in courts.
According to reports, the new labs under the Punjab Forensic Science Authority will reach crime scenes immediately, especially in cases of terrorism and serious crimes, to collect evidence. These teams will operate as "First Responders," expediting investigations and ensuring the protection of evidence.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced the allocation of Rs 8 billion for the modernisation of the Forensic Science Authority. This fund will be used for the acquisition of state-of-the-art equipment, infrastructure development, and the construction and upgrading of facilities.
In addition, offices of the authority will be established throughout the province to handle cases effectively at the local level.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz will personally chair the Forensic Science Authority Board, and a Vice-Chairperson will also be appointed. The board will include the secretaries of the departments of Home, Finance, Planning & Development, Law, Prosecution, and the IG Punjab, along with five forensic science experts.
This board will work to streamline the authority's operations and ensure government support.
These historic reforms in forensic science will not only improve the quality of criminal investigations but will also ensure the effective presentation of evidence in the judicial system.
The use of modern labs and technology will not only reduce the number of cases but will also increase the chances of convicting criminals.
In the coming days, additional steps will be taken under the Punjab Forensic Science Authority, including the recruitment of trained personnel in forensic science, the use of modern technology to speed up the investigative process, and ensuring transparency to restore public trust.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stated, "These reforms in the field of forensic science will set an example not only for Punjab but for the entire country. Our effort is to strengthen the justice system by incorporating modern science and technology into criminal investigations."
A month ago, the Punjab government introduced the Punjab Forensic Science Authority Act 2024 in the provincial assembly, aiming to enhance forensic investigations across the province.
According to the Punjab Home Department, the Provincial Cabinet had already approved the bill, which had then been referred to the Punjab Assembly's Special Committee on Home Affairs for further deliberation.
The proposed authority would comprise senior officials, including the Home Secretary, Finance Secretary, Law Secretary, Planning & Development Secretary, Public Prosecution Secretary, Punjab Inspector General of Police, and the Director General of the Forensic Science Authority.
Additionally, experts in audio-visual analysis, computer forensics, criminology, molecular sciences, and pathology were to be part of the technical panel.
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