Early Times Report GORAKHPUR, Nov 18: Addressing the inauguration ceremony of the newly upgraded A-Class Regional Forensic Science Laboratory (RFSL) in Gorakhpur, the Chief Minister highlighted that the six-storey modern facility, built at a cost of Rs 72.78 crore, marks a major step in strengthening law enforcement. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that the "new Uttar Pradesh" built after 2017 has absolutely no place for crime. Anyone attempting to break the law will face the consequences. After inaugurating and inspecting the upgraded lab, he congratulated the people of eastern Uttar Pradesh for receiving such advanced forensic capabilities. He added, "The days when victims wandered helplessly while criminals roamed free are over. Under a strict zero-tolerance policy, the state government has established a robust system for evidence collection and certification through modern forensic science labs, ensuring that no offender can escape accountability." CM Yogi said, "Scientific investigation, strengthened by high-tech forensic facilities, has created a reliable mechanism where criminals cannot evade justice. Accurate, swift, and transparent investigations are now enabling victims to receive timely and hassle-free justice." He noted that despite being the most populous state, Uttar Pradesh had only four forensic labs until 2017. After the formation of his government, it was decided that every commissionerate should have a forensic lab. Today, the number has increased to 12, with six more currently under construction. Soon, every commissionerate will be equipped with its own lab, ensuring comprehensive forensic examination to validate evidence and support stringent action against criminals. The Chief Minister also pointed out that, in addition to setting up these labs, the government has deployed two mobile forensic vans in each district to ensure quick evidence collection. This system enables strong evidence to be gathered within hours, helping victims receive justice more efficiently. "Now, no criminal will be able to escape," he said. CM Yogi further stated that before 2017, even when evidence was collected, the absence of adequate forensic facilities often allowed criminals to walk free. However, since the implementation of the three new criminal laws, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Sanhita, 2023, introduced in July last year under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the role of forensic labs has become even more crucial. Forensic investigation is now mandatory for crimes carrying more than seven years' imprisonment. UP had already laid the groundwork for this transformation well in advance. The Chief Minister said that forensic science labs will also open up new job avenues for youth. For this purpose, the UP State Institute of Forensic Science has been established in Lucknow. It offers certificate courses for lab technicians, diploma programs for field evidence collectors, and degree courses for forensic experts. The institute is equipped with advanced DNA diagnostics, AI-based systems, drone laboratories, and robotics labs. It has the capability to operate drones ranging from nano models to those weighing up to 40 kg. |