Hyderabad: The Nampally FSL fire has caused extensive damage, with a Nagpur-based special team confirming that 1,100 files were destroyed and digital data recovery is not possible.
The blaze erupted on February 7 on the first floor of the Forensic Science Laboratory building in Nampally. Flames engulfed around 50 computers and several seized hard disks that stored critical technical evidence in serious criminal cases.
After a detailed assessment, the special team concluded that retrieving digital records would be impossible. Consequently, investigators may have permanently lost crucial electronic evidence linked to multiple ongoing probes.
Sources revealed that some of the destroyed files contained key material in sensitive investigations. Among them were scientific records reportedly connected to the high-profile phone tapping case. However, officials have not yet issued a comprehensive inventory of the damaged material.
Nampally FSL fire raises investigation concerns
The Forensic Science Laboratory plays a vital role in supporting police investigations across Telangana. Officers routinely send biological samples, forensic exhibits and digital evidence to the lab for detailed examination.
Experts analyse fingerprints, DNA samples, blood traces and hair strands. They also examine firearms, bullets, narcotic substances and toxicology samples. In addition, specialists verify disputed signatures and scrutinise forged documents in fraud cases.
Because of the scale of the destruction, concerns have intensified over the status of pending cases. The loss of 1,100 files could affect investigations involving murder, robbery, sexual assault and financial crimes.
Authorities are currently evaluating the broader impact on the criminal justice system. While the exact extent of case disruption remains unclear, pressure is mounting on officials to outline remedial measures.
Meanwhile, the probe into the cause of the Nampally FSL fire continues. Investigators are examining technical and structural factors to determine how the blaze started and whether preventive safeguards failed.
The incident has sparked debate about data backup protocols and disaster preparedness in critical forensic institutions. Legal experts argue that stronger digital redundancy systems are essential to prevent such irreversible losses in the future.
