SC wants creation of DNA database for unidentified bodies

The Supreme Court has asked the Centre to create a road map for setting up of a DNA database to help in identification of bodies and missing persons.
The bench of justices Dipak Mishra and V Gopala Gowda asked Additional Solicitor General N K Kaul, appearing for the Centre, to impress upon the government for creation of DNA database.
"The ASG should impress upon the competent authorities of the Centre to think over it seriously so that an apposite roadmap is brought into existence on making it (DNA database) functional that would echo the voice and cry of the feelings and philosophy of the 21st century," the bench said.

The bench passed the order on a PIL filed by NGO Lokniti Foundation seeking setting up of the DNA database which would help in whether unidentified bodies are those of missing persons and also in criminal investigation.
The ASG informed the court that Centre was seized of the matter and was looking into the possibilities, as it would involve huge infrastructure, large expenditure and manpower.
The bench, asking the Centre to file an appropriate affidavit of the competent authority, said, "Without expressing any opinion, we require learned ASG to obtain specific instructions in this regard as to what steps actually have been taken in this regard, within eight weeks hence."

The petitioner submitted that establishment of identity of bodies is essential for respectful disposal.
"With the advent of modern scientific method, it is obligatory on the part of the State to avail requisite infrastructure, so that a DNA data bank is created, especially in respect of unidentified dead bodies and missing persons who are subsequently found dead," the counsel said.