A Bioethical Analysis of Forensic Misconduct in Indian Rape Trials Based on Autonomy, Non-Maleficence, Veracity, and Dignity

Abstract

Since the 2013 Criminal Law Amendment Act, forensic evidence in Indian rape trials has assumed a central role. This paper offers a bioethical examination of common misconduct in forensic practice through the four principle framework of autonomy, non-maleficence, veracity, and dignity. Drawing on statutory provisions, Supreme Court jurisprudence, institutional audits, and detailed case studies from diverse settings, it documents recurrent delays in medico-legal examinations, disruptions to the chain of custody, mishandling of biological specimens, and coercive procedures. These issues are assessed against ethical obligations to respect survivor choices, prevent secondary harm, maintain truthful documentation, uphold personal dignity, and support testimonial reliability. The analysis supports targeted reforms, including clear offences for documentation falsification, digital custody tracking, specialist forensic nursing, trauma-informed clinical protocols, and an independent ethics oversight authority. By aligning forensic practice with constitutional guarantees and ethical standards, the study offers practical guidance for policy makers and practitioners.