Mizoram boosts crime investigation with 10 new mobile forensic vehicles

Mizoram Home Minister K. Sapdanga on Monday, September 1 inaugurated 10 state-of-the-art Mobile Forensic Vehicles (MFVs) at the Directorate of Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Aizawl, marking a significant step towards enhancing scientific crime investigation in the state.

The vehicles, sanctioned by the Government of India in August 2025 at a cost of ₹4.818 crore, are fully equipped with modern forensic tools and technologies. They are designed to support the implementation of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, which mandates forensic certification in all cases carrying a punishment of over seven years. The law came into force nationwide on July 1, 2024.

To further strengthen Mizoram’s forensic infrastructure, the Centre has allocated ₹6.13 crore to the state. This funding includes 15 sets of advanced forensic equipment in addition to the 10 newly deployed vehicles. Currently, the FSL operates mobile forensic units in Aizawl, Lunglei, and Champhai, with plans for wider expansion. Recruitment of specialized forensic experts is also in progress.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Sapdanga highlighted India’s growing reputation in forensic science, noting that the sector gained renewed momentum after the 2012 Delhi ‘Nirbhaya’ case underscored the critical role of scientific evidence in securing justice. He added that Mizoram’s FSL is among the pioneers in the country to adopt paperless casework, fast-track examinations, and a case-tracking system.

At present, 14 forensic experts, led by Director T. Lalropuia, serve in Mizoram. They assist law enforcement with crime scene analysis, laboratory testing, and expert court testimony—ensuring accuracy, fairness, and efficiency in criminal justice delivery.

With the addition of these mobile units, Mizoram is expected to significantly improve its capacity for on-the-spot scientific investigation, bringing justice delivery closer to global forensic standards.