“DNA PROFILING AND CRIME SCENE MANAGEMENT: A SCIENTIFIC APPROACH TO CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION”
AUTHOR – AKSHAYA S, STUDENT AT TAMIL NADU DR. AMBEDKAR LAW UNIVERSITY
BEST CITATION – AKSHAYA S, “DNA PROFILING AND CRIME SCENE MANAGEMENT: A SCIENTIFIC APPROACH TO CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION”, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 6 (9) OF 2026, PG. 802-816, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.
ABSTRACT
The delivery of criminal justice increasingly relies on scientific investigative techniques in order to guarantee accuracy, reliability and fairness in the detection and prosecution of crimes. Among the range of forensic techniques available today, DNA profiling has become one of the most important tools for the identification of individuals and the establishment of links between suspects, victims and crime scenes. However, the effectiveness of DNA evidence is heavily dependent on proper crime scene management, as any error in the collection, preservation or handling of biological evidence may jeopardize the reliability of forensic results. This paper investigates the synergistic relationship between DNA profiling and crime scene management as components of modern criminal investigation. This paper discusses the concept of corpus delicti, basic principles of forensic science and the importance of systematic analysis of the crime scene in order to maintain the evidentiary value. The paper also discusses the historical development, the scientific basis, sources and processes of DNA profiling with emphasis on the identification of the offenders, victims and exoneration of innocent persons. Special attention is paid to processes of handling and preserving biological evidence and the importance of maintaining the chain of custody. The paper also discusses significant judicial pronouncements which have recognized the evidentiary value of DNA profiling and addresses the practical and legal issues regarding crime scene management and forensic DNA analysis. It is found that efficient management of crime scenes and precise DNA profiling are indispensable for improved criminal investigations and to boost the credibility of the criminal justice system. The study suggests improved forensic infrastructure, specialised training, standard protocols and robust legal safeguards to exploit the potential of DNA based evidence in criminal proceedings.
KEY WORDS: Corpus Delicit, DNA Profiling, Forensic Science, Crime Scene Management, Criminal Justice System