Chennai, July 24:
The Tamil Nadu government informed the Madras High Court that it will establish two additional DNA forensic laboratories to strengthen investigations into crimes against women and children. The submission was made before a Bench led by SA Dharmadhikari and G Arul Murugan, which reserved orders on a plea seeking measures for speedy trial in sexual assault cases.
The State said three such labs are currently functional and assured further steps to improve forensic capacity and judicial infrastructure. The court noted delays in trial proceedings due to case pendency and frequent adjournments. The plea stems from a 2025 sexual assault case, where the petitioner alleged delay in trial despite filing of the charge sheet, raising concerns over violation of her rights under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.