Journal of Forensic Research

DNA Fingerprinting: Identification of the individuals in distressing disaster situations

Abstract

Anupuma Raina*, Ajay Parkash, Jhansi Lakshmi Mylapalli, Deki Palmo Bodh, Govinda Balmuchu, Chittaranjan Behera, Sudipta Ranjan Singh, Rajnikanta Swain, Sindhu Sudha Sahu, Braja Kishore Mohapatra, Kamal Chauhan and Sanjeev Lalwani

Advancement in technology, safety in Indian railways has improved which decline the rates of train accidents i.e., collisions, derailment etc. However, train accident at Bahanga railway station at Balasore occurred on 2nd June 2023 in which around 293 passengers lost their lives and nearly 1200 passengers were injured raise question on railway safety measures. The main objective in such disaster is to identify the victims beside the reason behind the mishap. Forensic DNA analysis plays a key role in identification of mutilated bodies. As many as 81 deceased could not be identified mainly due to mutilation as many changes were observed in their bodies in due course of time; some were decapitated, in others only long bones were available. Also, most of these were not identified as they were travelling in unreserved compartments where there was no record available with the Railway Division. Sternum, teeth, scalp hairs and long bones which ever found suitable for DNA analysis were collected. The DNA analysis using autosomal STRs and Y-STRs was carried out for these unidentified bodies. As these bodies were embalmed using 10%-40% formalin for preservation so it is difficult to generate DNA profile even though DNA profile was generated successfully from all these 81 unknown bodies (100%) after 8-10 days of accident and compared with the claimants. 53 bodies were identified and handed over to their relatives on the basis of DNA Fingerprinting match, rest 28 bodies were disposed of. Sternum emerged as ideal sample for identification in comparison of teeth and long bones even after exposed to 40% formalin.