India - National DNA offender database as tool for criminal surveillance: Need for public debate!!!

Abstract

National DNA Databases are well established in many countries across the world, and their applications have expanded into controversial areas. The UK was the pioneer to start with National DNA Database since 1995, and the database was originally intended for sex offenders which was later extended to any criminal offender. Major motive of introducing forensic DNA databases was to provide investigating and leads to solve crime as part of criminal justice law enforcement purposes. Ethical, technical, and legal standards of DNA databases are set differently across each country. In India, Union Government is working on legislations to build up DNA database for offenders. Therefore, proper strategic planning and more debates on public opinion to address these foreseen challenges are the prime of the time in Indian context to develop an efficient system without impingement on policy and human right issues.