Mizoram Forensic Science Laboratory examines over 1.8 lakh evidence items in 26 years

Mizoram Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), under the Home Department, has examined more than 1.83 lakh pieces of evidence linked to 16,309 cases since 2000, according to a recent report released by the department.In the current year alone, up to September 30, 2025, the laboratory has processed 8,561 evidence items across 1,077 cases, highlighting the crucial role it continues to play in the state’s criminal justice system.Established in 1998 under the CID (Crime) as a branch, the FSL was transferred to the Police Headquarters on July 31, 2000, and was later upgraded to a full-fledged Directorate on March 13, 2015, under the Home Department.

According to FSL officials, forensic experts not only analyze evidence sent by various departments — including the Police, Courts, Excise & Narcotics, and others from both within and outside the state — but also actively visit crime scenes. Over the years, FSL personnel have visited 1,919 crime scenes and have deposed in court 4,900 times based on their forensic findings.

The laboratory has also compiled and recorded 10,920 fingerprints to date as part of their forensic database.Currently, the Mizoram FSL is staffed by 14 forensic experts, supported by a Director and 31 other personnel, making a total workforce of 45. The laboratory operates several specialized divisions including – Chemistry (Drugs & Narcotics), Questioned Documents, Ballistics & Toolmarks, Fingerprints, DNA Analysis, Toxicology, Photography and Cyber Forensics.