Human DNA Profiling Bill soon

The Human DNA Profiling Bill, to create a DNA data centre to profile people accused of serious crimes and unknown deceased is on the anvil

• Proposal was considered in 2007, but then dropped down due to factor in ethical, moral and legal issues on the sensitive issues.
• The Bill is drafted by the Department of Biotechnology.
• The bill allows DNA profiling for cases of culpable homicide, murder, etc.

Does the bill cater to protecting privacy of individuals?

• The draft Bill envisages that access to the information in theNational DNA Data Bank will be restricted to those related to the victim or suspect

Objective:

• Establish a DNA Profiling Board to lay down the standards for laboratories, etc.
• Setting up a National DNA Data Bank.

How DNA analysis helps?

• DNA analysis makes it feasible to determine whether the source of origin of one body substance is identical to that of another, and to establish the biological relationship, if any, b/w two individuals.

Forensic Material

• The biological material from which the DNA sample can be lifted includes blood, semen, or any other tissue fluid.

DNA Profiling Board

• DNA Profiling Board at the national level
• Similar structures at the State level.
• Headed by famous molecular biologists with the other members being from police, legal, biological and associated fields.

Functions of the DNA Profiling Board:

• Consider and suggest on all ethical and human rights issues rising out of DNA profiling in accordance with the UN vis-à-vis the rights and privacy of citizens, civil liberties and issues having ethical and other social implications.
• Make recommendations on the use and dissemination of DNA information.
• Assure the accuracy, security and confidentiality of DNA and guidelines destruction of obsolete, expunged or inaccurate information.

Any penalties for DNA data misuse?

• The Bill lays down guidelines for establishment and functioning of DNA laboratories and Data Banks.
• Lays guidelines for storage of biological substances and their destruction.
• Imprisonment up to 3 years and monetary fine on data misuse.