Assam has become India’s first state to operationalise the Measurement Collection Unit (MCU) system under the Criminal Procedure Identification Act, 2022, marking a major leap towards scientific and technology-driven policing.
The Assam Police has established MCU facilities in all district headquarters, enabling the scientific collection of advanced biometric and physical measurements of accused persons—far beyond traditional fingerprinting.
Key Features of the MCU System
- Comprehensive biometric database: Includes digitised fingerprints, retina scans, body measurements, and other unique biometric identifiers.
- Secure national digital network: Allows inter-state access to biometric records, improving coordination in investigations.
- Tamper-proof profiles: Enhances authenticity and reliability of criminal identification.
- Supports advanced forensic procedures under the Criminal Procedure Identification Act, 2022.
Significance
- Prevention of repeat offences: Quick identification of habitual offenders through cross-verification.
- Stronger protection for women and children: MCU will store DNA profiles related to crimes such as sexual assault and child abuse.
- Faster investigations: Digital systems reduce delays and manual errors.
- Modernisation of policing: Positions Assam as a national leader in forensic-enabled policing.
Statements from Officials
Senior police authorities highlighted that the MCU enhances transparency, accuracy, and accountability, aligning with national goals of scientific and technology-led law enforcement.
Exam Hook: Prelims Angle (One-line)
MCU is linked to the Criminal Procedure Identification Act, 2022, enabling advanced biometric collection for criminal identification.
MCQs (Statement-Based)
1. With reference to the Measurement Collection Unit (MCU) system recently operationalised in Assam, consider the following statements:
| 1. | MCU allows collection of retina scans and body measurements apart from fingerprints. |
| 2. | It has been implemented under the Criminal Procedure Identification Act, 2022. |
| 3. | The system stores biometric data accessible only within Assam. |
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only ✔
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
2. The Criminal Procedure Identification Act, 2022, allows which of the following to be collected for criminal identification?
| 1. | Biological samples |
| 2. | Behavioural attributes |
| 3. | Physical and biometric measurements |
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3 ✔
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1 only
Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!
Start Yours at Ajmal IAS – with Mentorship StrategyDisciplineClarityResults that Drives Success
Your dream deserves this moment — begin it here.
