SC Guidelines on DNA: Kattavellai @ Devakar v. State of Tamil Nadu

What is it?

A significant set of four procedural regulations released by SC to guarantee the integrity, reliability, and prompt processing of DNA evidence in criminal cases.

Seeks to unify chain of custody procedures across all States, even though policing is a matter for individual States.

Case Title: Kattavellai @ Devakar v. State of Tamil Nadu (2025) – concerned rape, homicide, and theft.

Essential Characteristics:

Adequate Documentation: Each DNA specimen needs to be enclosed with FIR information, case sections, names of the investigating officer, medical officer, and impartial witnesses, guaranteeing traceability from the beginning.

Timely Shipping (48-Hour Requirement): The investigating officer is required to deliver DNA samples to the Forensic Science Laboratory within 48 hours after collection.

Any delay must be justified in writing, and proper refrigeration/preservation is essential.

No Alteration During Storage: After sealing, the package cannot be opened, changed, or resealed without the explicit consent of the trial court.

Chain of Custody Log: An extensive log must document each transfer of the sample—from collection to court disposal—signed by all individuals involved.

Judicial Precedent:

Anil v. State of Maharashtra (2014): DNA profile is legitimate but relies on the quality control of the lab.

Manoj v. MP (2022): DNA evidence dismissed because of contamination concerns from unsecured recovery location.

Rahul v. Delhi (2022): DNA report denied because of 2-month Malkhana storage lacking proper protections.