Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 8: The post graduate department of criminology and forensic science and Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), School of Social Work (Autonomous), Roshni Nilaya, Mangaluru in collaboration with Code F Solutions Private Limited, Nagpur, Maharashtra and department of forensic science and criminology, IAHS, Srinivas University, Mukka, Mangaluru had formally inaugurated ‘CRIFO 2K24’ an international convention on the theme ‘Forensic Criminology- The Confluence of Science and Legal Practices’ on March 6.
The conference began by invoking God’s blessings with a prayer song followed by a welcome dance by Saumini Seelanand Aparna Shetty. Roshan D’Souza, assistant professor cum convenor formally welcomed the gathering.
Dr Saritha D’Souza, head, post graduate department of criminology and forensic science gave the introductory note. She gave a conceptual note on CRIFO. The goal is to enhance learners' skills and impart knowledge regarding criminology and forensic science through experts working in the field, which will help students with future prospects. She expressed that CRIFO 2K24 is special since there are four brainstorming sessions, paper presentations, and six events. On this occasion, the institution is signing a memorandum of understanding between Code F Solutions Private Limited, Nagpur, Maharashtra for academic pursuit.
The chief guest Dharmappa N M, additional superintendent of Police, Dakshina Kannada District inaugurated the programme by lighting the lamp and formally inaugurated CRIFO 2K24 by revealing the title followed by unveiling of the trophies. In his inaugural address, he shared his experience of police training where he met a forensic doctor with expertise in the field, having conducted over 1000 post-mortems and contributing to the resolution of various cases. He briefed about the duty of the police officer, emphasizing the crucial role of collecting evidence from the crime scene in the investigation process. The introduction of the new position of SOCO (Scene of Crime Officer) was highlighted as significantly aiding in evidence collection. He mentioned that when he joined the service, there was only one forensic science laboratory and institute, but now there are multiple institutes. He then discussed Article 21, which concerns the preservation of life and liberty. Forensic science, particularly cyber forensics, was underscored as increasingly vital in addressing emerging cyber-related crimes. Additionally, he elaborated on the types of evidence, distinguishing between circumstantial evidence and direct evidence. He encouraged students to actively participate in the experimental learning opportunities provided by the Police department to gain practical insights into the functioning of police stations.
The guest of honour an international speaker Dr Vina Vasvani, director, centre for ethics and professor, department of forensic medicine and toxicology, Yenepoya University she congratulated the institution for its growth and achievements in the field, highlighting the importance of confluence and collaboration. Later, she emphasized the significance of higher education and knowledge, delving into the essence of professionalism and the importance of fulfilling responsibilities with a positive attitude that enhances the profession. She conveyed the idea that science is a double-edged sword, cautioning that moving too far in one direction can harm the other side. She stressed the major role of forensic science, which is to provide unbiased justice, citing a case study where criminal profiling had been biased. Expressing her happiness for the commencement of CRIFO 2K24, she conveyed optimism for the event's success and its role in advancing knowledge and collaboration in the field.
The co-host Prof Pavana Krishnamoorthy, dean of IAHS at Srinivas University, Mukka, expressed, “Physiology is the study of living science, while Forensic Science focuses on the study of the deceased, and both fields are interrelated.” She expressed her delight in collaborating with the department and encouraged the participants to maximize this valuable opportunity.
On this occasion, a memorandum of understanding has been signed between the School of Social Work, Mangaluru, and Code F Solutions Private Limited, Nagpur, Maharashtra, for academic pursuits. Shubham Shahu, director of the organisation and Dr Jenis Mary P, vice principal of the institution had exchanged the MOU formally.
In the presidential address, Dr Jenis Mary P, vice principal, congratulated the department for conducting an international convention on the unique theme. She appreciated the head of PG department of criminology and forensic science for the enthusiasm and passion for the development of the department and the college. She shared her experience that 9 out of 10 convicts were innocent. As the chief guest has stated the importance of fairness in verdicts to provide justice, aligning with the perspective that civil authorities as well as the common people seek truth and justice.
Prof Evelyn Benis, secretary Institute of Social Service, Prof Cecilia F Goveas IQAC coordinator, Athira V J organizing secretary CRIFO 2K24, Balajinarayan B, junior analyst, forensic science laboratory, Puducherry, resource persons of CRIFO 2K24, faculties from various institutions, invited guests, sponsors, media correspondents, deans, HOD’s teaching and non-teaching faculties of the institution, alumni of the department and delegates in and around the globe and the organizing team of students were present during the occasion. Altogether around 240 delegates were part of this event.
The inaugural ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Niketh P S, assistant professor, organizing secretary of CRIFO 2K24. Aishwarya Sathya, president of Forensis Forum cum student coordinator introduced the chief guest and Nashwa Iqbal secretary of Forensis Forum compered the inaugural event. Jyothsna, media coordinator of the department compiled the report.
The valedictory ceremony of the was held on March 7.
Dr Mahabalesh Shetty, MD, crime scene expert, head, department of forensic medicine and toxicology, KSHEMA, Mangaluru was the chief guest. He addressed that crime conviction rate is only 10 to 15 percent, highlighting the primary goal of forensic experts to deliver justice within the system. He stressed the need for expert opinions to be absolutely accurate and envisioned that India would have defense experts comparable to other developed countries within a decade. Emphasizing the importance of unwavering expert opinions, he warned that any doubt could lead to the acquittal of the accused. In conclusion, he extended best wishes for the success of the department's future programmes.
The guest of honour, Prof Vineetha K, associate professor and registrar (Evaluation), School of Social Work, appreciated the organizing committee for the successful execution of the international convention. Emphasizing the conference's significance in advancing forensic knowledge within the legal system, she expressed gratitude to the attending guests and delegates. Furthermore, she commended and congratulated the entire team of MSC CFS, led by Dr Saritha D’Souza, for their efforts in organizing this accomplished event.
In her presidential address, Prof Evelyn Benis, secretary, Institute of Social Service, head of the PG Department of Social Work, commended the students and faculty members for their dedication in presenting video related to the theme. She further expressed appreciation for the organizing committee, acknowledging their efforts in conducting a successful programme. She extended her gratitude to the delegates, thanking them for participating in and contributing to this valuable opportunity. The theme of the first technical sessions is ‘Psychopathology and Crime’ conducted by Dr Francis N P Monteiro, professor and head, forensic medicine, Manipal University College, Malaysia. He discussed the scope of psychopathology in relation to crime, covering key elements like actus reus, psychosis, and mens rea. The session emphasized the need for prison reform, identification, prevention, and treatment of psychopathic and sociopathic criminals, and highlighted early detection and preventive measures for mental health to mitigate criminal activities.
The second session was on ‘Forensic Revolution in Insurance Investigations’ taken up by Shubham Sahu, director, Code F Solutions Private Limited, Nagpur, Maharashtra. He spoke about the roles of forensic science and forensic experts, shifting to the integration of forensic science with insurance. It covered the significance of insurance investigations, principles of insurance, and forensic applications in insurance investigations through 31 examples, concluding with a question-and-answer segment.
The resource person for the third technical session was G K Parameshwara Joi, senior advocate, District Court, Dakshina Kannada on the 'Significance of Scientific Evidences in Legal Practices.' He discussed the emergence of complex crimes like white-collar and cybercrime, stressing the challenges faced by the legal system. Jois presented case studies illustrating the practical application of forensic science in criminal justice. The session concluded with a focus on the role of experts, particularly in document forgery cases and highlighted the advancements in DNA technology.
In the final technical session, Balajinarayan B, junior analyst at Forensic Science Laboratory, Puducherry, discussed the evolving landscape of crime in a session titled 'Transition in the Landscape of Crime: An Outlook.' He praised the unique theme of the convention and explored various aspects, including cybercrime's transnational nature, underlying factors in forensic analysis, and the prevalence of crimes like pandemic-related phishing and online child sexual exploitation. The session concluded with suggestions for combating cybercrimes, drug use, and online child exploitation.
The valedictory ceremony proceeded with the distribution of prizes to the winners of various events. The Garden City University, Bengaluru has been declared as the overall champions.
Prof Cecilia F Goveas, IQAC coordinator, Dr Sandra Sunita Lobo, head, department of psychology and NAAC coordinator, Dr Swathi D, course coordinator, department of forensic science and criminology, IAHS, Srinivas University, Mukka, Roshan D’Souza, convenor CRIFO 2K24, Balajinarayan B, junior analyst, forensic science laboratory, Puducherry, Dr Devaseelan S, assistant professor, department of forensic science and criminology, Srinivas University, Mukka, Mangaluru, Amithesh Shetty, faculties from various institutions, invited guests, sponsors, media correspondents, deans, HOD’s teaching and non-teaching faculties of the institution, alumni of the department and delegates in and around the globe and the organizing team of students were present during the occasion. Altogether around 240 delegates were part of this event.
Athira V J assistant professor cum organizing secretary CRIFO 2K24 welcomed the gathering. The valedictory programme successfully concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by Dr Saritha D’Souza, head, post graduate department of criminology and forensic science cum program coordinator CRIFO 2K24. Manisha Riya Baretto compered the programme. Jyothsna, media coordinator of the department presented the rapporteur and compiled the report of the convention.