A STUDY ON THE RELIABILITY AND ADMISSIBILITY OF FORENSIC EVIDENCE IN COURTS UNDER THE BHARATIYA SAKSHYA ADHINIYAM, 2023

AUTHOR – INDHUMATHI.D* & SUGITHKUMAR R G**

* STUDENT AT THE TAMILNADU DR AMBEDKAR LAW UNIVERSITY, SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE IN LAW, CHENNAI

** ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AT THE TAMILNADU DR AMBEDKAR LAW UNIVERSITY, SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE IN LAW, CHENNAI

BEST CITATION – INDHUMATHI.D & SUGITHKUMAR R G, A STUDY ON THE RELIABILITY AND ADMISSIBILITY OF FORENSIC EVIDENCE IN COURTS UNDER THE BHARATIYA SAKSHYA ADHINIYAM, 2023, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 6 (1) OF 2026, PG.873-880, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

Abstract

Forensic evidence occupies a central position in contemporary criminal adjudication. The rapid advancement of scientific techniques—particularly DNA profiling, fingerprint analysis, ballistic examination and digital forensics—has significantly influenced the fact‑finding process of courts. However, the perceived infallibility of forensic science has increasingly been questioned in light of documented errors, laboratory failures and wrongful convictions across jurisdictions. The enactment of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 (BSA), which replaces the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, marks an important transition in India’s evidentiary regime. This paper critically analyses the reliability and admissibility of forensic evidence under the BSA framework, evaluates judicial approaches, identifies systemic and procedural challenges, and proposes reforms necessary to strengthen evidentiary integrity in India’s criminal justice system. The research finds that while the BSA strengthens the role of forensic evidence—especially digital records—it still depends heavily on proper collection methods, certification requirements, and judicial scrutiny to ensure fairness. The study concludes that forensic evidence can significantly improve conviction accuracy only when supported by robust procedural compliance, trained forensic infrastructure, and vigilant judicial oversight.