Hyderabad: National DNA database need of the hour, say experts

“DNA database will help crack blind cases and track repeat offenders. It will also have a deterring effect,” says Dr Vivek Sahajpal

Hyderabad: In context of the DNA Technology Regulation Bill pending before the Parliament, experts emphasise on having a national DNA database, a press release said.

According to Dr Kumarswamy Thangraj, the director of Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD), Hyderabad, a national DNA offender database would help harness the true potential of DNA technology. “The criminal justice system globally is increasingly relying on DNA forensics and a national database allowing cross-referencing with DNA fingerprints will help realise the true potential of DNA technology,” he said.

---

However, he also emphasised on the need for a strong regulatory framework. “This requires sensitive biological data. One of the key features of the DNA Technology Regulation Bill is the creation of a regulatory board to ensure data protection. The DNA profile will not reveal any information about an individual,” Dr Thangaraj said.

Dr Vivek Sahajpal of State Forensic Science Laboratory, Himachal Pradesh, further added, “DNA database will help crack blind cases and track repeat offenders. It will also have a deterring effect.”

Crime detection rates are expected to go up from 26 per cent to 40 per cent with a national DNA database, the press release added.

---

Now you can get handpicked stories from Telangana Today on Telegram everyday. Click the link to subscribe.

Click to follow Telangana Today Facebook page and Twitter .

---