Alteration Examination in Suspected Documents A Hands-on Workshop LPU
It was a moment of great pride and excitement to share my insights at a hands-on workshop titled “Examination of Alteration in Suspected Document” held at Lovely Professional University in collaboration with the Sherlock Institute of Forensic Science, Delhi, on October 19, 2023.
This workshop, attended by BSc. and MSc. forensic science students, offered a perfect blend of theory and hands-on practical experience, equipping students with invaluable knowledge and skills in the field of document examination.
Key Workshop Highlights:
Introduction to Document Examination: I began with a comprehensive introduction to the field of document examination, highlighting the crucial role it plays in forensic investigations and the importance of attention to detail and precision while analyzing suspected alterations in documents.
Identifying Alterations and Forgeries: I discussed various techniques used to identify document alterations and forgeries, the basics of ink analysis, handwriting comparison methods, and paper examination, equipping students with practical knowledge to distinguish between genuine and fake documents.
Hands-On Practical Sessions: Hands-on sessions gave students an opportunity to apply their newly acquired knowledge. They practiced techniques such as UV light examination, magnification, and chemical analysis on real-world cases and learned what challenges they could face while examining forged documents and how to overcome them.
Case Studies and Real-Life Scenarios: From my experience, I shared case studies showcasing the practical applications of document examination in real-life scenarios. I also discussed how forensic experts collaborate with law enforcement agencies and legal professionals to investigate complex cases involving altered documents, fraud, and contract disputes.
Quality Assurance in Document Examination: I highlighted the significance of maintaining quality assurance standards in document examination and discussed the importance of ensuring that findings and analysis are scientifically sound, reliable, and admissible in court.
Learning Outcomes:
- Students gained a deep understanding of the principles and techniques involved in document examination, providing a solid foundation for future forensic work.
- The hands-on experience allowed students to develop practical skills, enhancing their ability to identify and analyze document alterations.
- Exposure to real-world case studies and scenarios broadened students' perspectives on the diverse applications of document examination in forensic science.
The workshop instilled in students the importance of maintaining ethical and legal standards while working with sensitive documents, ensuring the credibility of their findings.
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU):
Following the workshop, Lovely Professional University and SIFS India, Delhi, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote collaboration in various areas, including research, curriculum development, student exchange programs, and internships.
The MoU opens up exciting opportunities for students to gain practical experience and exposure to the latest advancements in forensic science through SIFS India's expertise.
In conclusion, the workshop was a transformative experience for BSc. and MSc. forensic science students at Lovely Professional University. The practical knowledge gained during the workshop will undoubtedly shape the future of these budding forensic scientists. Also, the signing of the MoU with SIFS India, Delhi, marks the beginning of a new era of collaborative learning and innovation in the field of forensic science.
