Page 17 - Veritas

2. As a female forensic scientist, what are the challenges you face?
As a female forensic scientist, cases involving crime against women and

children have a personal attachment. Whenever I am faced with a case
involving crimes of such nature, I take it as a challenge to give my best

to provide justice to the victim. Workplace challenges for women in this
field is also something that needs to be spoken about. Crime scene visits

involve a personal appearance in the crime at any time of the day. Protec-
tion for women scientists must be taken seriously.

3. In your experience, how much has the recent criminal amendment for

rape and the POCSO Act, 2012, helped curb the sexual offences against

women and children?
Certainly, it has had an effect. We are seeing the numbers affected by the

amendments and the POCSO Act. But still, some states and UTs can go a
long way in using the provisions of both to enhance justice and protection

to women and children. Even stricter laws, policing, and awareness are
needed on this front.

4. What would be your suggestions to improve better access for women

and children to a safer world?
Awareness is the key. There are various programs, welfare schemes, se-

curity institutions, and legal remedies that the government is providing.

But the awareness is lacking. The stereotyping of genders both at home
and school must also undergo a change. In my opinion, I would suggest

schools which are now having special training to teach sex education and
self-defence for children. We need to educate our children, so that we can

prepare for a better tomorrow and bring an end to these vicious crimes.

5. What does the future outlook for Forensic Science look like in your
opinion?

Forensic Science is an umbrella of all sciences, and the future lacks no
promise. In fact, in our country, the upcoming reforms in Police and Jus-

tice departments paint a highly positive outlook for our science. Many

universities are running courses on Forensic Science, and now by qualify-
ing for the written exam of FACTS, FSLs give the opportunity to work for

2 VERITAS