Allahabad High Court flags forensic laboratory shortage in Uttar Pradesh

The Lucknow bench sought a detailed response on Uttar Pradesh's forensic examination capacity. The case could shape timelines, custody priorities and monitoring of delayed reports.Stock photo used for illustrationLucknow,Oct 29, 2026 14:00 ISTThe Allahabad High Court's Lucknow bench has expressed concern over the shortage of forensic science laboratories in Uttar Pradesh, saying the existing infrastructure is inadequate for the state's size and population, news agency Press Trust of India reported.The court noted that Uttar Pradesh has only one state Forensic Science Laboratory and 12 regional forensic laboratories. It directed the director of the Uttar Pradesh Forensic Science Laboratory to file a detailed reply within four weeks.A division bench of Justices Rajesh Singh Chauhan and Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra made the observations while hearing a public interest litigation filed by advocate Piyush Gupta. The matter will next be heard in the week beginning November 30, according to PTI.The petition seeks directions to the state government to frame and notify a standard operating procedure setting maximum timelines for forensic examinations and the submission of reports from the date laboratories receive samples. It also seeks priority for cases involving accused persons in judicial custody and time-bound procedures for cases covered under Section 193(2) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita. The provision requires investigations into specified sexual offences to be completed within two months.The petitioner has also sought a mechanism requiring the laboratory director to record written reasons when reports are delayed beyond the prescribed timelines. The plea proposes regular reviews of pending cases by a designated officer. The petition argues that delays in forensic reports can adversely affect trials involving undertrial prisoners and hamper prosecution in serious offences, including rape and murder. It says delays in scientific evidence can also prolong the wait for justice for victims and their families.During the hearing, the petitioner referred to data on forensic laboratories in various states cited in the Union Home Ministry's reply to the Lok Sabha.The court has sought a detailed response from the state forensic laboratory director as it considers the plea for fixed timelines, priority processing and regular monitoring of forensic examinations in Uttar Pradesh.- Ends