The Meghalaya High Court has raised serious concerns over infrastructure problems, staff shortages and non-functional equipment at the Directorate of Forensic Sciences Laboratory in Shillong. The court warned that these deficiencies could delay criminal investigations and weaken the administration of justice. It directed the state government to address vacant posts, pending equipment approvals and poor laboratory maintenance.
The court also highlighted problems affecting DNA analysis, NDPS testing and cyber forensics. It stressed that timely forensic reports play a crucial role in criminal cases. The next hearing is scheduled for November 19, when the government must explain the steps taken to improve the facility.
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Key Facts About the Meghalaya Forensic Laboratory Case
- Location: Directorate of Forensic Sciences Laboratory, Shillong, Meghalaya.
- Court: Meghalaya High Court.
- Bench: Chief Justice Revati Mohite Dere and Justice W Diengdoh.
- Order date: November 5.
- Next hearing: November 19.
- Amicus curiae: K Ch Gautam.
- Major concerns: Staff shortages, poor infrastructure, outdated equipment and delayed approvals.
- Vacant gazetted posts: Two Deputy Directors and two Scientific Officers.
- Generator issue: The backup generator installed in 2024 stopped working after a high-voltage surge.
- Payment directed by court: ₹50,000 to the amicus curiae.
Meghalaya High Court Seeks Immediate Improvements
A division bench of Chief Justice Revati Mohite Dere and Justice W Diengdoh passed the order on November 5.
The bench considered an inspection report submitted by amicus curiae K Ch Gautam. He had examined the laboratory and identified several problems affecting its daily operations.
The court directed the Meghalaya government to take urgent steps. It specifically highlighted pending approvals, vacant positions and essential maintenance work.
The bench explained that forensic reports provide crucial evidence during criminal investigations. Therefore, delays in scientific examinations can affect chargesheets and court proceedings.
The court also warned that deficiencies in forensic reports could lead to acquittals. As a result, it stressed the need for a properly staffed and equipped laboratory.
Poor Infrastructure and Sanitation at Shillong Laboratory
The inspection report highlighted poor maintenance across the laboratory building.
Several sections reportedly had damp walls and inadequate sanitation. In addition, officials found unhygienic workstations in different divisions.
The three-storeyed building has only one cleaner. Consequently, scientific officers and other employees must clean and maintain their respective work areas.
The court expressed concern over the situation. It said the laboratory needs adequate housekeeping staff to maintain proper working conditions.
Shortage of Scientific and Technical Staff
The inspection also identified major vacancies across several divisions.
These include Chemistry, Biology/DNA, Documents, Cyber Forensics, Ballistics and Physics. The report specifically listed two vacant Deputy Director posts and two Scientific Officer posts.
The court expressed particular concern about the Cyber Forensic Unit. Only one Scientific Officer, assisted by one other person, oversees the unit while also managing the Physical Division.
Furthermore, several sections need laboratory bearers and support staff. These employees help handle exhibits, manage materials and maintain laboratory spaces.
The report also raised concerns about the Director’s professional background. It stated that the current Director does not have a technical or scientific background in forensic science.
The bench described this as a “matter of serious concern”. It noted that a specialised institution like a forensic laboratory requires proper scientific and technical supervision.
Non-Functional Equipment Affecting Forensic Services
The laboratory also faces shortages of scientific equipment and essential consumables. These problems have affected several important forensic services.
According to the inspection report:
- Chemistry Division: Some equipment remains non-functional.
- NDPS testing: Testing activities have faced interruptions.
- DNA analysis: Shortages of chemicals affect laboratory work.
- Biology/DNA Division: The division lacks adequate equipment.
- Documents and Physical divisions: Both require modern equipment.
- Cyber Forensics Unit: The unit needs updated hardware and software.
The report also highlighted the need for regular equipment maintenance and calibration. Moreover, the laboratory requires additional air conditioners and fans.
Generator Failure Raises Concerns Over Laboratory Operations
The court also examined the failure of the laboratory’s backup generator.
The Directorate installed the generator in 2024. However, a sudden high-voltage surge from the main power line damaged it and stopped its operation.
The Directorate requested approval for repair or replacement through a letter dated September 23, 2026. However, the request remained pending before the Joint Secretary of the Home (Police) Department.
The laboratory depends on sophisticated equipment that requires an uninterrupted power supply. Therefore, the generator’s failure creates risks for daily operations, data safety and productivity.
Meanwhile, the government informed the court that several purchase proposals were awaiting Finance Department approval.
These included requests for essential consumables, equipment and generator replacement. The laboratory had also started the quotation process for DNA consumables using state funds.
Although officials completed the technical evaluation of participating firms, the proposal sent to the government on October 8 remained pending.
High Court Directs Government to Fill Vacancies
After reviewing the inspection report, the bench directed the state government to place it before the Secretary and Joint Secretary of the Home (Police) Department.
The court wants the officials to take prompt action on pending approvals, vacant posts and other deficiencies.
It also directed the government to fill vacancies, including Grade-IV positions, at the earliest. In addition, the bench asked officials to prioritise maintenance of the laboratory building.
The court suggested that the government could engage retired forensic laboratory employees on a contractual basis if necessary. This arrangement could help address staff shortages until regular appointments take place.
The bench also directed the Additional Advocate General to submit an affidavit before the next hearing. The affidavit must explain the government’s actions on staffing, equipment, consumables, power backup and maintenance.
Additionally, the court ordered the state government to pay ₹50,000 to amicus curiae K Ch Gautam for his contribution and assistance during the proceedings.
Next Hearing Scheduled for November 19
The Meghalaya High Court has listed the matter for further hearing on November 19.
During the next hearing, the bench will examine the government’s response and progress in addressing the laboratory’s problems.
The court expects clear updates on vacant posts, equipment purchases, essential consumables, generator repairs and building maintenance.
Questions and Answers
Q1. Why did the Meghalaya High Court raise concerns about the forensic laboratory?
The court identified poor infrastructure, staff shortages, non-functional equipment and delays in essential purchases at the Shillong laboratory.
Q2. Where is the forensic laboratory located?
The Directorate of Forensic Sciences Laboratory is located in Shillong, Meghalaya.
Q3. Which forensic divisions face staff shortages?
The Chemistry, Biology/DNA, Documents, Cyber Forensics, Ballistics and Physics divisions face manpower shortages.
Q4. What happened to the laboratory’s generator?
A high-voltage surge damaged the generator installed in 2024. The Directorate has requested approval for its repair or replacement.
Q5. When is the next court hearing?
The Meghalaya High Court has scheduled the next hearing for November 19.
Importance for Meghalaya and Northeast India
The Shillong forensic laboratory plays an important role in criminal investigations across Meghalaya. Its scientific services help investigators examine evidence and support criminal prosecutions.
Therefore, shortages in staff, equipment and infrastructure can affect the wider justice system. The High Court’s directions highlight the need to strengthen forensic facilities across Meghalaya and Northeast India.
Improving the laboratory’s capacity could help investigators receive timely scientific reports. It could also support more effective investigations and fairer court proceedings.
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