Authorities involved in the identification of victims from the recent Ahmedabad plane crash have requested secondary DNA samples from the relatives of at least eight deceased passengers, after the initial samples submitted failed to yield a match, officials confirmed on Saturday.
According to Rakesh Joshi, the Civil Superintendent of Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, the handover of bodies to families can only occur after a conclusive DNA match is established.
In several cases, the DNA samples initially provided by close relatives, such as siblings, did not align with the genetic profile of the deceased, prompting the need for samples from other family members.
“When a match is not found within a reasonable period, it becomes necessary to seek another DNA sample from a different family member,” Joshi explained while speaking to PTI.
“For example, if a sibling’s sample doesn’t produce a match, then we request a sample from another sibling, or preferably a parent or the deceased’s child, since these relationships offer a stronger genetic link.”
While emphasizing that in many cases sibling samples have worked, Joshi said that biological relationships such as those of parents or offspring typically yield faster and more accurate results, and are thus prioritized when available.
DNA Matching: A Complex But Crucial Process
The task of identifying victims in the aftermath of such large-scale tragedies is extremely complex and demands a high degree of precision, especially when dealing with severely damaged remains.
In this particular incident, 231 victims’ DNA samples have been matched successfully, and 210 bodies have already been returned to their families for final rites.
However, for the remaining victims, the identification process remains ongoing. In at least eight cases, the initial DNA samples provided by relatives failed to produce a match, stalling the process of returning bodies to the grieving families.
The families have since been informed and asked to submit additional samples from other close relatives by the established forensic procedures.
Joshi stressed that the DNA matching process is highly sensitive and governed by strict legal and scientific protocols, requiring accuracy and careful handling at every step.
Despite these challenges, efforts are being made to expedite the process without compromising the integrity of the results.
“We are fully aware of the emotional distress that families are experiencing, and our teams are working around the clock to complete the identification process as quickly and accurately as possible,” he said.
Multi-Agency Coordination Underway
To ensure that families are reunited with the remains of their loved ones at the earliest, a multi-agency collaboration has been initiated. The Forensic Science University, along with associated forensic laboratories, state health departments, local administration, and other concerned authorities, is collectively working to streamline the DNA testing and verification process.
The Government of Gujarat, in coordination with central authorities, is providing logistical and technical support to enable fast-track processing of DNA samples while also ensuring compliance with legal mandates.
With every passing day, families continue to wait in anguish for closure. Authorities have assured them that despite the scientific limitations and procedural demands, every effort is being made to ensure dignity, accuracy, and compassion throughout the process.