Section 293 of CrPC : Section 293: Reports Of Certain Government Scientific Experts

Explanation using Example

Imagine a scenario where a burglary has taken place, and the police have collected fingerprints from the scene. These fingerprints are sent to the Director of the Finger Print Bureau for analysis. The Director examines the prints and prepares a report stating that the fingerprints match those of a suspect in the case.

In the trial, the prosecution wishes to use the fingerprint report as evidence. According to Section 293(1) of The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, the report prepared by the Director of the Finger Print Bureau, being a government scientific expert, can be admitted in court as evidence without the need for the Director to be present during the trial.

However, the defense may challenge the accuracy of the fingerprint analysis. The court, using its authority under Section 293(2), decides to summon the Director to testify about the contents of his report and the procedures used to analyze the fingerprints.

If the Director is unable to attend the trial in person due to other official commitments, as per Section 293(3), he may send a responsible officer from the Bureau who is familiar with the case and can provide testimony on behalf of the Director.