A fire incident was reported at the Telangana Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Nampally, Hyderabad, on the morning of February 7, 2025. According to an official press note, the fire broke out around 10:08 am on the first floor of the FSL building and was brought under control without any loss of life or injuries.
The fire was first noticed by Sai Krishna, an employee working in the Computer Forensic Laboratory, after smoke was seen emerging from the lab. He immediately alerted staff and informed the Inspector of Police posted at the facility. Fire extinguishers available on-site were used in the initial response.
Fire Contained, Limited Damage Reported
The smoke alarm system on the first floor was activated, prompting an immediate response from the Fire Department. Fire tenders reached the spot within minutes, and the blaze was fully extinguished by around 1:30 pm.
Officials stated that the fire caused damage to parts of the computer forensic laboratory, the training hall, and some other facilities located on the first floor. However, there were no casualties or injuries in the incident.
Police Case Registered, Investigation Ongoing
A complaint has been registered with the local police, and a case has been booked at the Nampally Police Station as Crime No. 48/2026. Police officials have begun an investigation, and damage assessment is currently underway.
During the inspection of the scene in the presence of panch witnesses, authorities retrieved a large quantity of case property, which has been placed under proper security. Officials said the verification process is ongoing.
Clarification on High-Profile Case Materials
Amid speculation on social media and in sections of the media regarding the loss of sensitive evidence, Forensic Lab Director Shikha Goel clarified the status of key case materials.
According to officials, a total of 132 material objects related to the phone tapping case had been sent to the FSL for examination. All these materials were examined strictly as per procedure, have been safely retrieved, and none were destroyed or damaged in the fire.
Officials also clarified that 16 material objects linked to the cash-for-vote case had earlier been sent to the FSL. However, no material related to the cash-for-vote case was present at the FSL at the time of the fire.
Officials Dismiss Speculation
The press note strongly dismissed what it described as unverified and baseless claims regarding destruction of evidence. Authorities reiterated that most case properties have already been retrieved and secured, and that a detailed assessment of the damage will be shared in the public domain once completed.
Officials emphasized that the incident did not compromise the integrity of any critical case material and urged the public to rely only on verified information.
