Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Sep 12: Goa is set to enhance its forensic drug testing infrastructure with the proposed acquisition of two high-end Randox drug detection machines, one each for the South Goa District Hospital in Margao and the State Forensic Science Laboratory in Verna.
Manufactured by UK-based Randox Laboratories, the machines utilize Biochip ImmunoAssay technology capable of detecting traces of up to 29 narcotic substances in human blood and bodily fluids. The system is known for its high sensitivity and rapid turnaround time, offering a significant upgrade over conventional forensic testing methods.
“This technology can detect even minuscule drug traces that traditional forensic methods often miss,” explained Dr. Madhu Ghodkirekar, Associate Professor of Forensic Medicine at Goa Medical College (GMC), currently posted at South Goa District Hospital.
He also highlighted that unlike older testing systems, Randox machines can be installed directly in hospital labs, enabling faster results, which can be critical in drug abuse investigations or medical emergencies.
Legal Admissibility Strengthens Case for Use
Until recently, one of the key challenges with such high-tech testing methods was the admissibility of results in court, due to limitations in the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). However, with the implementation of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and a July 2025 directive from the Directorate of Prosecution, Randox-generated reports are now considered legally admissible evidence in criminal trials.
Not New to Goa
The Goa Medical College was a pioneer in this field, having introduced the Randox system back in 2014 under the leadership of then Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar. The original "Forensic Investigator" model has since been upgraded to the newer ‘Multistat’ version through a buyback policy.
With the introduction of these machines in South Goa District Hospital and Verna Forensic Lab, Goa is poised to significantly improve its drug detection capabilities, aiding both law enforcement and medical professionals in tackling drug-related issues swiftly and accurately.