In a tragic incident, over 270 lives were lost in the Air India plane crash, leaving many bodies charred beyond recognition. Traditional methods of identification proved ineffective, leading authorities to collect over 275 samples from the remains for DNA identification. Forensic experts from various institutions, including Narendra Modi Medical College, BJ Medical College, and Lokmanya Tilak Medical College, are working tirelessly to match these remains with the grieving families.
DNA, or Deoxyribonucleic Acid, is the genetic blueprint that is unique to every individual, except for identical twins. It serves as a fundamental identifier of biological identity, helping to distinguish one person from another.
In disaster victim identification, DNA is extracted from biological materials such as blood, bone, teeth, or tissue. This extracted DNA is analyzed to create a genetic profile, which is then compared with the DNA of biological relatives. In cases where bodies are burned, decomposed, or fragmented, DNA sampling becomes the primary method to confirm identity.
STRs are small repeating sequences found in human DNA that do not influence health or traits but vary significantly among individuals. For instance, one person might have the sequence "AGAT" repeated ten times, while another has it fourteen times at the same locus in their DNA. Scientists study these STR patterns as they are unique to each individual, akin to fingerprints. In DNA identification during disasters or crime scenes, these repeating sequences are analyzed to match unknown samples with known individuals or their relatives.
The DNA profile is matched with samples provided by biological relatives. If the markers are insufficient, the process can be repeated to ensure accuracy.
Typically, DNA reports can take up to three months due to the detailed procedures and risk of contamination. However, in emergencies like the Air India crash, the timeline is significantly reduced.
Once identification is confirmed, only the relative who submitted the reference sample, or an authorized person, can claim the body after providing identification and proof of relation. Civil Hospital handles all paperwork, and free ambulances are arranged for transportation. Legal formalities, such as post-mortem and clearance for handover, are completed on-site.
If DNA analysis is unsuccessful or no reference samples exist, other forensic methods may be utilized. These include dental records, implant serial numbers, or identifying scars, though they require proper documentation and image records. Teeth are often used as a last resort due to their resilience and ability to preserve DNA.
Q1. What is DNA identification?
Answer: DNA identification is a forensic method that uses genetic profiles to determine the identity of individuals, especially in cases where traditional identification methods are not feasible.
Q2. How long does DNA profiling take in emergencies?
Answer: In emergency situations, DNA profiling can be expedited to 72 hours, significantly shorter than the typical three-month timeframe.
Q3. What role do field teams play in DNA identification?
Answer: Field teams collect blood samples, verify identities, and conduct home visits for relatives who cannot reach hospitals, ensuring a thorough identification process.
Q4. What happens if DNA analysis fails?
Answer: If DNA analysis fails or no reference sample is available, forensic methods such as dental records or identifying scars may be used for identification.
Q5. Why is STR analysis important?
Answer: STR analysis is crucial because it examines unique repeating sequences in DNA, allowing for accurate matching of individuals in forensic cases.
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