It's a laborious process at state's forensic labs

Hyderabad: Forensic Laboratories in Telangana State are still strangers to the Rapid DNA analysis methodology. Laboratories in TS still stick to the traditional method that takes ninety-six samples and releases them after six to twelve hours.

The ‘Rapid DNA analysis’, a portable machine, is a faster way to analyse data on the spot. It also reduces the chances of sample damage. This technique is best for ca-ses of kidnappings, murders or adoptions (when one child is claimed by two or more ‘mothers’).

Mr K.P. Srinivas, a DNA expert,  explained, “Forensic labs in TS operate using the traditional method. First, samples are collected from the crime scene. Then they are cleaned and the DNA fragments are separated and stored for analysis, using ‘capillary electrophoresis’ which is a time consuming process with heavy backlogs. It then takes at least a month for the FSI to conclude or interpret the result.  

“In the CEP DNA Analysis method, each step is treated differently. Every component of the conventional method is separately done. Also, labs follow a ‘first come first served’ basis, so important cases that need immediate results get delayed. The lab process is a long one and is needed for very complex cases. In ten per cent of the cases, expert intervention is required.”

The Forensic Science laboratories (FSI) of Andhra Pradesh are in the process of procuring a Rapid DNA Analysis portable machine. However, there has been no move from the Telangana government, said an FSI official.

“Rapid DNA Analysis methodology is an on-the-spot DNA testing facility, as the machine can be carried to the crime spot. At a time, we can analyse 5 samples in a single go. This technology can be used in the exhumation of bodies, degraded samples, kidnapping and missing cases. It can also be used for cases of child exchan-ge in hospitals and child adoption. This method can give immediate results, as it can produce a report within just three to four hours, which generally takes a month from forensic labs. This technology must be used in present-day crime cases” said Dr. G. V Rao, a city-based DNA expert.  .