Kohima, July 28 (MExN): The Association of Kohima Municipal Wards Council (AKMWC) has welcomed the Nagaland government's decision to establish a separate Directorate of Forensic Sciences, describing it as a significant step towards modernising criminal investigation and strengthening the state's criminal justice system. In a statement, the AKMWC said the decision reflects the growing recognition that scientific evidence, rather than suspicion or confession, should form the foundation of a fair, impartial and effective criminal justice system under the new criminal laws. The association also welcomed the induction of mobile forensic vans, the proposal to recruit specialised officers, the strengthening of the State Forensic Science Laboratory and the creation of an independent Directorate of Forensic Sciences. While appreciating the government's initiative, the AKMWC urged it to implement the reforms within a definite timeframe. The association further urged the government to expedite the recruitment of qualified Naga youths trained in various branches of forensic science, saying indigenous expertise was essential for the long-term sustainability of the state's forensic system and would reduce dependence on external agencies.