Sealed Packet Protocol
Definition
The convention that every transfer of an evidence packet between custodians is logged, with the seal inspected and the inspection signed off at each handoff.
- Core requirement
- Every custodial transfer is logged
- Check performed
- Seal inspected at each handoff
- Documentation
- Inspection signed off by receiving custodian
- Purpose
- Maintains an unbroken chain of custody
Common questions
What is the difference between the sealed packet protocol and simply having a sealed packet?+
A sealed packet is a physical object; the protocol is the procedural rule governing how that object moves between people, requiring an inspection and signature at every single handoff rather than only at the beginning and end of its journey.
Why does the protocol require inspection at every handoff instead of just at final delivery to the FSL?+
A gap anywhere in the chain, even a single unrecorded transfer, creates an opportunity to argue the evidence was tampered with or substituted during that window, so Indian courts have scrutinized custody gaps closely and an unbroken record of inspections closes that argument off.
What is the practical consequence when a link in the sealed packet protocol is missing from the record?+
A missing signature or inspection record at any transfer point can be used to challenge the evidentiary weight of whatever is later found in the packet, even if no actual tampering occurred, because the documented chain itself is what the court relies on to trust the sample's identity.
Related terms
- Broken Chain
- Any gap, ambiguity, or contradiction in the custody record that prevents the court from concluding the analysed item is the seized item.
- Chain of Custody
- The documented chronological record of who collected, handled, transferred, and examined a piece of evidence. For digital evidence, chain of custody includes...
- Forwarding Memo
- The transmittal document that accompanies a sealed packet to the FSL. Most Indian states use a state-numbered Form carrying the IO's signature,...
- Seizure Memo (Panchnama)
- The on-scene record of items recovered, witnessed by independent panch witnesses. Signed by the IO and the panchas.