Court Highlights Deficiencies in Forensic Science Laboratory Infrastructure; Urges State Government to Take Immediate Action
In a significant ruling, the Allahabad High Court has granted bail to Manoj, an accused in a case involving rape and murder, due to the absence of incriminating scientific evidence. The judgment, delivered by Justice Arun Kumar Singh Deshwal on May 21, 2026, underscores the systemic deficiencies in the state's forensic infrastructure and calls for urgent remedial measures.
The bail application was filed in relation to Case Crime No. 199 of 2025, concerning the alleged rape and murder of a woman whose body was discovered near a river. The court's decision to release Manoj was based on the failure of the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) report to establish a DNA match due to outdated equipment and incomplete DNA profiling capabilities. The judgment draws attention to the critical issue of obsolete machines and inadequate staffing in the FSLs across Uttar Pradesh, which impede effective crime investigation.
Justice Deshwal emphasized the importance of scientific evidence in criminal cases, stating, "Proper forensic analysis is essential for fair adjudication and justice. The lack of reliable DNA profiling in this case has compelled the court to grant bail, albeit with a heavy heart."
The court highlighted the need for the State Government to address the infrastructure deficiencies in forensic labs to ensure accurate and timely forensic analysis. The judgment directs the government to provide high-end machines and adequate staffing to enhance the capabilities of FSLs, thereby supporting the judicial process.
Furthermore, the court imposed several conditions on Manoj's bail, including non-indulgence in criminal activities, cooperation in trial proceedings, and non-tampering with evidence. It warned that any violation of these conditions would result in bail cancellation.
The judgment also references previous cases, including Maya Tiwari v. State of U.P. and Mevalal Prajapati v. State of U.P., where similar issues with FSL infrastructure were noted. The court's decision serves as a wake-up call to the authorities to prioritize forensic infrastructure enhancement to uphold justice.
Bottom Line:
Bail granted to the accused due to lack of incriminating scientific evidence, specifically DNA matching, caused by outdated FSL machines and incomplete infrastructure.
Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Sections 66(1), 103(1), 238
Manoj v. State of U.P., (Allahabad) : Law Finder Doc id # 2915387
