One of the most potent means of social transformation in the preceding 20 century has been the rise of computers and information technology which brought about changes in not only elite societies but also the poorer sections of the society. Forensic DNA testing and DNA databasing are the creations of the digital era which will continue to contribute substantially to resolving problems or disputes arising under civil or criminal laws. Though initially relying upon expert testimony based on DNA evidence the Courts of India have evolved to accept DNA evidence as both 'relevant fact' and 'conclusive proof'. This paper discusses the manner in which the appreciation of technology-based evidence differs in the oriental countries and their occidental parts, the different stages in the acceptance of the DNA based evidence in India and the effects of the Judgments passed by the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India upon the society and the upon the ruling polity and concludes by highlighting the lacunae in legislation or its applications and by suggesting solutions where applicable for effectively using this technology for speedily resolving disputes in the Courts of law in India.
One of the most potent means of social transformation in the preceding 20 century has been the rise of computers and information technology which brought about changes in not only elite societies but also the poorer sections of the society. Forensic DNA testing and DNA databasing are the creations of the digital era which will continue to contribute substantially to resolving problems or disputes arising under civil or criminal laws. Though initially relying upon expert testimony based on DNA evidence the Courts of India have evolved to accept DNA evidence as both 'relevant fact' and 'conclusive proof'. This paper discusses the manner in which the appreciation of technology-based evidence differs in the oriental countries and their occidental parts, the different stages in the acceptance of the DNA based evidence in India and the effects of the Judgements passed by the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India upon the society and the upon the ruling polity and concludes by highlighting the lacunae in legislation or its applications and by suggesting solutions where applicable for effectively using this technology for speedily resolving disputes in the Courts of law in India.