FORENSIC PREPAREDNESS AND GENDER JUSTICE IN INDIA: ANALYZING GAPS IN POLICE TRAINING AND FORENSIC INFRASTRUCTURE IN CRIMES AGAINST WOMEN

AUTHOR – AYUSHI YADAV, ADVOCATE, JIWAJI UNIVERSITY GWALIOR

BEST CITATION – AYUSHI YADAV, FORENSIC PREPAREDNESS AND GENDER JUSTICE IN INDIA: ANALYZING GAPS IN POLICE TRAINING AND FORENSIC INFRASTRUCTURE IN CRIMES AGAINST WOMEN, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 5 (14) OF 2025, PG. 43-49, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

Abstract

Forensic preparedness forms a critical foundation for achieving gender justice in cases of sexual offences in India, where timely and scientific handling of evidence plays a decisive role in conviction outcomes. The existing legal and institutional mechanisms, including statutory mandates for medical and forensic exams under criminal law, provide a structured framework for the collection, preservation, and evaluation of scientific evidence in crimes against women. However, the study reveals persistent gaps in police training, forensic infrastructure, and inter-departmental coordination that undermine the potential of these legal provisions.

Despite national directives establishing Sexual Assault Evidence Kits and specialised forensic units, implementation remains inconsistent. Shortage of trained personnel, delays in forensic analysis, and non-adherence to chain-of-custody standards weaken evidentiary value and create barriers to justice delivery.  While specialised units and trauma-sensitive procedures are mandated, police often lack gender-sensitive training and forensic literacy, resulting in compromised evidence collection. Judicial authorities have consistently emphasised the importance of scientific evidence and professional investigation standards, affirming that procedural lapses can lead to miscarriage of justice.

This research paper highlight the need for systematic capacity-building, technological upgrades, and strict monitoring mechanisms to ensure standardised forensic practices. Strengthening police-forensic-medical coordination, enhancing victim-support structures, and adopting digital case-tracking systems are essential to improving justice outcomes.  A holistic approach integrating scientific investigation, administrative reform, and survivor-centric protocols is necessary to reinforce public trust and secure gender justice in India.