DNA Evidence, CCTV Footage Seal Conviction in Chandigarh Rape–Murder Case
A Chandigarh district court has sentenced Mohammad Sakir to life imprisonment for the rape and murder of an 18-year-old woman, with the conviction resting primarily on forensic DNA evidence corroborated by CCTV footage, according to officials and court reporting.
The crime occurred on November 20, 2022, at the victim’s rented accommodation in Burail. The woman was found unconscious by her mother and was later declared dead at a hospital. Police initially registered a murder case, which was subsequently expanded to include rape following forensic examination.
CCTV Footage Provided a Crucial Lead
Investigators secured footage from a CCTV camera installed near the victim’s residence. The footage showed Sakir entering the victim’s room at approximately 9:30 a.m. and leaving about an hour later. No other individual was seen entering the premises during the relevant time period.
Police identified and arrested Sakir, who was working as a delivery agent at the time. The CCTV footage became a key piece of circumstantial evidence, placing the accused at the scene during the critical time window.
Forensic Examination and DNA Findings
A Mobile Forensic Team was deployed immediately after the incident. Biological exhibits, including vaginal swabs, bedding, pillow covers, and blood-stained gauze, were collected in accordance with prescribed forensic protocols.
The samples were sent to the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) for analysis. According to prosecution submissions accepted by the court:
- Human semen was detected on the biological exhibits.
- DNA profiling established a match between the semen and the accused.
- The forensic results ruled out the involvement of any third party.
The DNA report played a decisive role in the case and led to the formal inclusion of rape charges against the accused.
Court Ruling and Sentence
The Special Fast Track Court found Sakir guilty of rape and murder and sentenced him to:
- Life imprisonment for murder
- Ten years’ rigorous imprisonment for rape
- A fine of ₹50,000
The defence denied the allegations and claimed false implication. However, the court held that scientifically established forensic evidence, supported by digital evidence and medical findings, was sufficient to sustain conviction even in the absence of eyewitness testimony.
Status of Court Judgment and Forensic Report
The full written judgment has not yet been uploaded to the official district court or e-courts portal. Once available, it is expected to elaborate on judicial reasoning related to the admissibility and probative value of DNA evidence, chain-of-custody compliance, and the evaluation of forensic expert opinion.
The complete CFSL laboratory report has also not been made public, consistent with standard practice unless annexed to a published judgment or disclosed during appellate proceedings.
Court records and reporting indicate that sample seals were intact upon receipt by the laboratory, no break in the chain of custody was established during trial, and the defence was unable to discredit the forensic process.
Significance of the Case
Legal and forensic experts note that the case highlights the growing reliance on DNA profiling and digital surveillance in serious criminal investigations. It demonstrates how properly collected, preserved, and analysed forensic evidence can form the backbone of a successful prosecution.
At the same time, recent judicial precedents continue to emphasize strict compliance with forensic and procedural safeguards, reinforcing the importance of meticulous evidence handling to sustain convictions.
