KATHMANDU: Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Mahabir Pun has said that the government has prioritised strengthening the National Forensic Science Laboratory.

In today’s meeting of the Education, Health and Information Technology Committee under the House of Representatives, during the discussion with experts regarding the ‘National Forensic Science Laboratory (Establishment and Operation) Bill, 2081’, he informed that the physical structures of the laboratories in Bardibas, Dhangadhi, Butwal, and Birendranagar will be constructed.

Committee chairperson Dr Ojaswi Sherchan said it is necessary to enhance the laboratory’s capacity.
Lab experts Om Prakash Sharma and Gopal Chaudhary gave their views on the need for DNA tests and the DNA bank for human identification in criminal cases.

Also, expert Nirajan Thapa pointed out the lack of skilled human resources with the laboratory and suggested that the bill should include provisions for training.

MP Dr Chandra Mohan Yadav mentioned that a ‘DNA database bank’ is necessary. MP Dr Lekhjung Thapa also stated that establishing a DNA bank is essential. He expressed the view that laboratories should be audited for DNA security.

MP Pukar Bam stated that it is necessary to create plans to make the laboratory nationwide and effective. MP Guru Prasad Baral noted that plans are needed to prevent the brain drain of scientists from Nepal.

MPs Chandan Kumar Singh and Ganesh Paudel also emphasised that sufficient budget and resources are needed for the laboratory.