Though sidelined by emerging forensic tools of identification, the dependence on fingerprints still has relevance (“Neglect may wipe out oldest finger print bureau”, Sept.25). A textbook case is when the culpability of monozygotic twins is in question. Even DNA testing can go wrong and it is only dactylography that comes to the rescue. Forensic laboratories in India are facing a severe crisis of manpower and infrastructure. It is time we strengthen our science laboratories.
Dr. Manoj Kumar Gaddam,Karimnagar, Telangana
It is a fact that no two fingerprints have ever been found to be alike. Even in the era of growing computerisation, research into fingerprint science continues under the banner of the International Fingerprint Research Group, to cite one example. New methods and techniques are being evolved to enhance forensic science as crime methodology becomes more sophisticated. If the West Bengal government is unable to run the bureau, it should appeal for international aid.
C.R. Ananthanarayanan,Bengaluru
