All preparations completed to set up Wildlife Forensic unit in Karnataka: Minister Priyank Kharge

Bengaluru (PTI): Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge on Tuesday said all preparations have been completed to establish a Wildlife Forensic Unit, which will become operational shortly.

He said this unit will greatly assist in investigating wildlife crimes and illegal smuggling cases.

The Minister, visited the Forensic Science Laboratory office in Madiwala here to conduct a review meeting where he praised Karnataka's FSL for growing into one of the best institutions in the country, known for its scientific accuracy, technical capability, and swift reporting in criminal investigations.

According to a statement issued by the Minister's office, Kharge said that for the first time in the state, all preparations have been completed to establish a "Wildlife Forensic Unit," which will become operational shortly.

He said that the government will prioritise filling the current vacancies at FSL and assured that immediate steps would be taken to recruit necessary staff, including Scientific Officers.

Kharge lauded the department for its efficiency, saying that despite an increase in the number of cases over the last few years, the strategic use of technology and enhanced performance has successfully brought down the report turnaround time from 40 months to just one to four months in several divisions.

He reiterated that the Karnataka government is fully committed to further strengthening the forensic system to ensure accuracy, speed, and transparency in criminal investigations, making it a model for the entire country.