India is progressively embracing blockchain technology, with its latest application being integrated into criminal investigations. The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in New Delhi has unveiled its pioneering plan to incorporate blockchain into its internal operations, as reported by The Pioneer.
VK Saxena, FSL’s Director, highlighted several benefits of integrating blockchain into forensics. These advantages include the creation of an “unalterable digital record of evidence” and the enhancement of transparency.
Currently, more than 1,500 FSL employees have undergone specialized blockchain training. This prepares them to effectively utilize this integration during their investigative processes.
Enhancing Evidence Integrity Through Mobile App and Blockchain Integration
Additionally, this integration employs a mobile app that Saxena considers vital for establishing a transparent evidence trail from crime scenes. An insider revealed that the forensic process will be divided into four distinct stages, each requiring authorization before FSL staff can access evidence.
The source stated, “Blockchain technology integrated with Delhi FSL’s e-forensic app will ensure that evidence (material samples) collected from crime scenes and submitted to FSL for analysis will remain untouched.” He added, “Accessible only to authorized individuals across four separate blocks, representing distinct analytical stages, the resulting data will remain immune to manipulation.”
In this novel evidence management system, QR codes will be assigned to individual pieces of evidence. This use of QR codes will enable investigators to maintain objectivity and enhance accuracy.
Critics’ Concerns and Mitigation Strategies Amidst Blockchain Integration by New Delhi’s Forensic Authorities
Despite the innovative nature of blockchain integration, critics have highlighted potential shortcomings. They raise concerns about vulnerabilities in evidence handling from crime scenes until data is recorded on the distributed ledger.
To address these concerns, New Delhi’s Forensic Authorities experts propose using photographs and an automated record of interview evidence to mitigate risks. Blockchain’s Adoption in India FSL’s recent initiative follows India’s strategy to integrate blockchain across sectors for efficiency.
Since Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman predicted a 46% adoption rate, it has found applications in healthcare, real estate, and education. However, the Indian government remains cautious about deploying blockchain in finance due to perceived risks of excessive decentralization. The government imposed stringent digital currency taxes and leads G20 efforts for uniform regulations.
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