The Punjab government has approved the Forensic Science Authority Act 2024, which will establish the Punjab Forensic Science Authority with broader powers than the existing Forensic Science Agency.
The new legislation will grant legal recognition to video, audio forensics, and other types of evidence, the 24NewsHD TV Channel reported on Wednesday.
According to the channel report, the government has forwarded the 2024 Act to the Punjab Assembly for final approval.
Under the proposed law, the Chief Minister will serve as the chairperson of the authority. The cabinet has already approved the draft of the Forensic Science Authority Act 2024.
According to the proposed bill, the authority will include 13 members, comprising secretaries and forensic experts under the Chief Minister’s supervision.
The Act will provide enhanced clarity on forensic materials and evidence. The Chief Minister will also have the authority to appoint a vice-chairperson for the Forensic Science Authority.
Previously, the Punjab Forensic Science Agency was established under the 2007 Act. However, legal experts noted that shortcomings in the 2007 law prevented certain types of evidence from being granted legal status.
Reporter: Irfan Malik