Question

Which of the following should be considered while maintaining chain of custody ? A. Record for all items collected from the scene must be documented.
B. In case of digital evidences, the hash value of each evidence must be computed and recorded individually.
C. Markings, Packaging and seals of the evidence.
D. All the processes during transfer of evidence should be recorded faithfully in the case diary.
E. When evidence is submitted to Police station ‘Malkhana’/Forensic laboratory, a receipt documenting the transfer is obtained.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

• A. A and C Only
• B. A, C and D Only
• C. A, B and E Only
• D. A, B, C, D and E Only

Hint:

Chain of custody = Documentation + Security + Continuity. Always ensure: record, seal, track, verify, and acknowledge transfer.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: Chain of custody is a critical legal and procedural concept in forensic science that ensures the integrity, authenticity, and admissibility of evidence in a court of law. It refers to the complete documentation and tracking of evidence from the moment it is collected until it is presented in court. Every step must be transparent, traceable, and properly recorded to prevent tampering, contamination, or loss.

Step 1: Importance of documentation of collected items (Statement A).
Every item collected from the crime scene must be documented with complete details such as description, location, time, and collector’s identity. This ensures traceability and helps reconstruct the sequence of events.
Thus, Statement A is correct.

Step 2: Role of hash values in digital evidence (Statement B).
Digital evidence is highly sensitive and can be altered easily. Therefore, a hash value (digital fingerprint) is calculated using algorithms like MD5 or SHA. This value ensures that the evidence remains unchanged throughout the investigation. Any alteration changes the hash value, indicating tampering.
Thus, Statement B is correct.

Step 3: Proper marking, packaging, and sealing (Statement C).
Evidence must be properly labeled, packaged, and sealed to avoid contamination or loss. Seals also ensure that the evidence has not been opened or tampered with. Proper packaging depends on the type of evidence (biological, physical, trace, etc.).
Thus, Statement C is correct.

Step 4: Recording transfer processes (Statement D).
Whenever evidence is transferred from one authority to another (e.g., crime scene to lab), every step must be recorded in the case diary. This ensures continuity and prevents any gaps in handling.
Thus, Statement D is correct.

Step 5: Obtaining receipts during transfer (Statement E).
When evidence is submitted to a police storage facility (Malkhana) or forensic laboratory, an official receipt must be obtained. This serves as legal proof of transfer and ensures accountability.
Thus, Statement E is correct.

Step 6: Final evaluation.
All the statements A, B, C, D, and E are essential components of maintaining a proper chain of custody. Final Conclusion:
Hence, the correct answer is (4) A, B, C, D and E Only.