Computer Forensic Division Goa Forensic Science Laboratory Goa Police Department Government of Goa Verna Goa 403722

## Policy Analysis Report: Notification on Examiner of Electronic Evidence **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a notification (S.O. 2458 E) issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology on May 27, 2025. The notification, acting under Section 79A of the Information Technology Act 2000, designates the Computer Forensic Division, Goa Forensic Science Laboratory, Goa Police Department as an Examiner of Electronic Evidence within India. The scope of examination includes Computer Media Forensics (excluding floppy disk drives) and Mobile Devices Forensics. This designation aims to provide a qualified entity for the examination of electronic evidence, likely to aid in legal and investigative processes. **2. Introduction:** This report provides an overview and analysis of the notification (S.O. 2458 E) issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology on May 27, 2025, regarding the designation of an Examiner of Electronic Evidence. The analysis is based solely on the information provided within the text of the notification. **3. Policy Overview:** * This is a *New Policy* designating an entity as an Examiner of Electronic Evidence. * **Core Objective(s):** To designate a specific entity (Computer Forensic Division, Goa Forensic Science Laboratory, Goa Police Department) as an official "Examiner of Electronic Evidence" within India, as authorized by Section 79A of the Information Technology Act 2000, and to define the scope of their examination capabilities. **4. Background and Rationale:** As a new policy designating an Examiner of Electronic Evidence, this likely addresses the increasing need for qualified forensic experts to analyze digital evidence in legal and law enforcement contexts. The Information Technology Act, 2000 provides the legal basis for such designations, implying that previously, or in specific geographic locations like Goa, perhaps a formally recognized entity for this purpose did not exist, or there was a need to formally recognise the existing entity. Designating such an entity ensures a reliable and legally recognized source for the analysis of electronic evidence. The exclusion of floppy disk drive forensics suggests a focus on more modern and prevalent forms of digital storage and communication. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** As a *New Policy*, the key provisions are: * **Designation:** The Computer Forensic Division, Goa Forensic Science Laboratory, Goa Police Department, Government of Goa, VernaGoa403722 is officially designated as the "Examiner of Electronic Evidence" within India. * **Legal Basis:** The designation is made under the authority of Section 79A of the Information Technology Act, 2000 (21 of 2000). * **Scope of Examination:** The entity's examination scope is explicitly limited to: * Computer Media Forensics (excluding Floppy Disk Drive). * Mobile Devices Forensics. * **Notification:** The designation is formally announced through the publication of S.O. 2458 E in the Gazette of India. **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The target audience and stakeholders primarily include: * **Law Enforcement Agencies:** The Goa Police Department will likely utilize its own Computer Forensic Division for electronic evidence examination. * **Judicial System:** Courts and legal professionals who require expert testimony and analysis of electronic evidence. * **Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology:** The issuing body responsible for overseeing the designation and ensuring compliance with the Information Technology Act. * **Individuals and Organizations involved in legal cases involving electronic evidence in Goa:** These parties will be affected by the availability of this designated examiner. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency/Bodies:** The primary responsible body is the Computer Forensic Division, Goa Forensic Science Laboratory, Goa Police Department. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology holds overall responsibility for the policy's implementation and oversight. * **Timelines/Procedures:** The notification is effective immediately upon publication. Further procedures for engaging the Examiner of Electronic Evidence would likely be governed by existing legal protocols and the Goa Police Department's internal procedures. There is no timeline outlined in the provided text. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The intended outcomes of this designation are likely to include: * **Enhanced Forensic Capabilities:** Improved capacity for the analysis of computer and mobile device-based evidence in legal and investigative contexts within Goa. * **Increased Legal Validity:** Electronic evidence analyzed by the designated examiner is more likely to be considered reliable and admissible in court. * **Streamlined Legal Processes:** A clear and defined process for accessing expert electronic evidence examination. **9. Conclusion:** The notification designates the Computer Forensic Division, Goa Forensic Science Laboratory, Goa Police Department, as the Examiner of Electronic Evidence under the Information Technology Act. This is a significant step towards enhancing the forensic capabilities related to electronic evidence analysis in India. The designation provides a legally recognized and qualified entity for examining computer media (excluding floppy disks) and mobile devices, contributing to more reliable and efficient legal proceedings. This policy helps establish trust and reliability in an increasingly digital landscape.

Key Entities Referenced