DNA analysis, as part of forensic investigation, has transformed the criminal justice system by providing highly accurate evidence to link individuals to crime scenes, thereby enhancing forensic reliability while also increasing public trust in the system. However, its application in notable cases, such as the Nithari Kand and Aarushi Talwar cases, has revealed systemic weaknesses. These cases highlight the challenges of implementing DNA technology in underdeveloped forensic infrastructures, raising concerns about the consistency and reliability of forensic processes. The present study examines the efficacy and limitations of DNA analysis in criminal investigations in India, utilizing qualitative data from forensic experts (n = 8), investigating officers (n = 12) and legal professionals (n = 60), as well as forensic reports and court documents. We found that while DNA evidence played a critical role in victim identification and suspect linkage, its impact was often compromised by procedural lapses, sample contamination and delayed forensic processing. These findings contribute to the growing body of research on forensic science in developing legal systems and offer practical implications for reforming India’s forensic and investigative infrastructure.
