Himachal Pradesh Enhances Crime Investigation with New Digital Forensic Division

In a significant development for crime investigation in Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the Digital Forensic Division and Advanced Equipment Laboratory in Dharamshala. This state-of-the-art facility, equipped with advanced tools for data extraction from damaged mobile phones, aims to enhance the efficiency and reliability of forensic investigations. Additionally, the CM laid the foundation for staff quarters in Kangra, further supporting local governance. This initiative is expected to improve transparency in handling serious criminal cases, making it a pivotal step in modernizing law enforcement in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 4, 2025, 14:38 IST

Inauguration of Digital Forensic Division in Dharamshala

DHARAMSHALA: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu officially launched the Digital Forensic Division and Advanced Equipment Laboratory at the Regional Forensic Science Laboratory (RFSL) on December 4, 2025, marking a significant advancement in crime investigation capabilities in Himachal Pradesh.

The newly established facility, featuring cutting-edge infrastructure valued at Rs 3 crore, is equipped with sophisticated tools designed to extract and analyze data from even damaged mobile devices, a long-awaited resource for investigators.

Additionally, an Advanced Equipment Laboratory worth Rs 1.05 crore has been set up to facilitate high-precision forensic examinations, with the equipment alone valued at Rs 1.50 crore.

Officials indicated that these upgraded facilities would greatly improve transparency, reliability, and efficiency in forensic investigations throughout northern Himachal Pradesh. The Chief Minister emphasized that the digital division would be instrumental in preserving and analyzing evidence, particularly in serious cases with potential penalties of seven years or more.

Foundation Laid for Staff Quarters

Prior to the RFSL inauguration, CM Sukhu also opened the newly constructed District Panchayat Resource Centre (DPRC) in Kangra, which was built at a cost of Rs 3.92 crore.

Furthermore, he laid the foundation stone for the staff quarters of the zila parishad in Kangra, a project projected to cost Rs 2.26 crore.

Attendees at the events included Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh, MLA Suresh Kumar, Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta, and PR&RD Secretary C Paulrasu.