Government Strengthens Digital Forensics with New Electronic Evidence Examiners

The Indian government has taken a significant step to enhance its digital forensic capabilities by appointing five new electronic evidence examiners, including the Border Security Force's Special Instruments Wing. This initiative aims to address the growing challenges posed by digital crimes, particularly in the realm of drone forensics. With a focus on scientific examination of electronic evidence, the government is also expanding forensic infrastructure to ensure timely justice under new criminal laws. This comprehensive approach is designed to strengthen the nation's ability to investigate and prosecute digital crimes effectively.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 14, 2026, 18:06 IST

Enhancing Digital Forensic Capabilities

In a significant move to bolster the digital forensic framework, the central government has appointed five new electronic evidence examiners, including the Border Security Force's (BSF) distinguished 'Special Instruments Wing' (SIW). Officials have confirmed this development.

This initiative aims to enhance the nation's capacity to investigate the rapidly increasing electronic evidence associated with digital crimes.

The SIW will take on the responsibility of examining a specialized area of electronic evidence known as 'drone forensics.'

Sources indicate that the designation of SIW for drone forensics underscores the growing importance of evidence linked to drones.

As security agencies confront challenges such as drug and weapon smuggling, surveillance, and other illegal activities facilitated by drones, the scientific examination of electronic evidence in these cases has become increasingly critical.

Collaboration Among Forensic Laboratories

According to sources, the analysis and examination of electronic evidence related to 'computer (media) forensics and mobile device forensics' will be conducted by the Directorate of Forensic Science Laboratories (DFSL) in Mumbai, the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) in Goa, and the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) in Kolkata, which operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The Cyber Forensic Division of the state forensic laboratory in Jaipur will handle cases related to 'computer (media) forensics.'

However, it is important to note that 'floppy disks' and 'mobile device forensics' will not be included in this initiative.

The government has designated these laboratories as electronic evidence examiners under Section 79A of the Information Technology Act.

This expansion is part of a broader effort by the government to establish a comprehensive network of accredited digital forensic facilities, as investigative agencies increasingly rely on electronic records obtained from mobile phones, computers, storage devices, CCTV systems, cloud platforms, and other digital sources.

Focus on Forensic Infrastructure Expansion

The Ministry of Home Affairs is concentrating on expanding forensic infrastructure to ensure swift justice under new criminal laws. These laws aim to complete the judicial process from the filing of an FIR to a verdict in the Supreme Court within a three-year timeframe.

Home Minister Amit Shah has emphasized the significance of scientific evidence in expediting justice.

On June 19, 2024, the central cabinet approved the National Crime Science Infrastructure Expansion Plan, which allocates ₹2,254.43 crores for the period from 2024-25 to 2028-29. This initiative aims to strengthen forensic investigation facilities and infrastructure across the country.