Identifying Critical Forensic Evidence in Strengthening Rape Laws

This paper examines the critical role of forensic evidence in strengthening the investigation and prosecution of rape cases under the evolving Indian criminal justice framework, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita. While judicial precedents increasingly emphasize scientific validation, such as DNA profiling, to corroborate survivor testimony and secure convictions, significant challenges remain in the standardization and practical enforcement of evidence collection protocols. Drawing on insights from legal experts and forensic scientists, the study highlights that legislative reforms, such as the 2013 and 2018 Criminal Law Amendment Acts, must be complemented by improved institutional training, better-equipped forensic laboratories, and trauma-sensitive medical care. Ultimately, the paper argues that achieving timely justice requires bridging the gap between existing legal mandates and ground-level implementation, ensuring that forensic science serves as an objective, reliable tool to uphold survivor dignity and ensure perpetrator accountability.