TMU Organised Guest Lecture on the Role of Forensic Toxicology in Criminal Investigation & Trials
The Department of Forensic Science, College of Paramedical Sciences, TMU, successfully organised a guest lecture on "The Role of Forensic Toxicology in Criminal Investigations and Trials" on November 29, 2025. The academic session was arranged to enhance students’ understanding of forensic toxicology and its important role in crime investigation and judicial proceedings. The programme witnessed active participation and academic interest from around 100 participants, making it a successful and meaningful learning experience.
Distinguished Expert and Resource Person
The guest lecture was delivered by Prof. (Dr.) Rajendra Kumar Sarin, Professor at the National Forensic Sciences University, Delhi Campus. Prof. Sarin was a renowned forensic toxicologist with more than forty years of professional experience in the field of forensic science.
His vast expertise in forensic toxicology, analytical chemistry, crime case analysis, and expert testimony provided valuable academic and professional insights to the students. Prof. Sarin explained the role of forensic toxicology in criminal investigations clearly and simply.
Focus of the Lecture
During the lecture, Prof. Sarin discussed how toxic substances are detected and analysed from biological samples such as blood, urine, and tissues. He also explained the importance of the correct interpretation of toxicological findings in solving crime cases.
He highlighted how toxicological findings help investigators reconstruct crime events, determine the cause of death, and identify the presence of poisons or drugs involved in criminal cases. Prof. Sarin also emphasised the medico-legal importance of toxicology reports in criminal trials.
Understanding Toxicology in Judicial Process
A significant part of the lecture focused on the use of toxicology reports as scientific evidence in court trials. Prof. Sarin explained how forensic toxicologists present their findings during judicial proceedings and how expert testimony supports judges and investigating agencies.
He also discussed the challenges faced by forensic experts while giving testimony in court, including cross-examination and the need for accuracy, clarity, and ethical responsibility. The session helped students understand the real-world application of forensic toxicology beyond laboratories.
Learning Objectives and Outcomes
The guest lecture successfully achieved its academic objectives. It helped students understand the analytical techniques used in toxicological examinations and the importance of accurate interpretation of results. Students gained clarity on how toxicology reports are prepared and how they influence court verdicts.
The session created awareness about the critical role of forensic toxicology in criminal justice and encouraged students to think critically about expert testimony and its impact on legal decisions. Faculty members and students were inspired to pursue further learning and research in the field of forensic toxicology.
Interactive Session and Conclusion
The lecture concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, where students actively interacted with Prof. Sarin and clarified their doubts using real-life case examples shared during the session. This interaction added practical value to the academic discussion. The event ended with a felicitation ceremony and group photographs, marking a successful conclusion to the programme.
The Department of Forensic Science expressed sincere gratitude to Prof. (Dr.) R. K. Sarin for sharing his rich experience and expertise. The successful organisation of this guest lecture reflected TMU’s commitment to academic excellence, practical exposure, and quality education in forensic sciences.
