In the aftermath of the tragic Ahmedabad plane crash, the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Gandhinagar has been working tirelessly to identify victims using DNA profiling and matching. The FSL Director, H.P. Sanghvi, explained that the process is conducted continuously, 24 hours a day. This process involves two main methods of collecting DNA samples. The first method is straightforward, involving fresh blood samples from the victims’ relatives. The second method is more complex, involving DNA extraction from the remains of the deceased. This method requires greater precision and is time-consuming.
Samples taken from the deceased, such as bones or teeth, must be meticulously cleaned to eliminate any external contamination. For instance, if the sample is a bone, it is ground into a powder. If it is a tooth, it is broken into small fragments before being powdered. The powdered samples are then processed using specialized machines that operate at specific temperatures to isolate the DNA.
Once the DNA is isolated, its quantity and quality are checked using RT-PCR machines. If the DNA meets the required quality standards, multiple copies are prepared. The DNA strands are separated and run through sequencing machines to generate a complete DNA profile. However, if the process does not yield sufficient DNA alleles, the entire procedure must be repeated.
Identification of the deceased is confirmed only when 23 alleles match between the victim and their family members. In cases of father-son relationships, Y-chromosome testing is conducted for additional confirmation. Sanghvi emphasized that despite the complexities and time required for this process, the FSL has successfully identified many victims within a short timeframe with high accuracy.
One notable case involved the former Chief Minister of Gujarat, Vijay Rupani, whose identity was confirmed through DNA testing just three days after the crash. Rupani had initially cancelled his flight ticket twice before deciding to travel on June 12. Tragically, he was among the 241 casualties on the Air India flight AI171, which crashed shortly after takeoff, leaving only one survivor.
The plane went down into a building on the campus of BJ Medical College, resulting in a massive explosion that caused further devastation. The FSL’s DNA profiling efforts play a crucial role in providing closure to the families of the victims during this difficult time. As the identification process continues, the meticulous work of the forensic experts remains essential in restoring dignity to the deceased and their loved ones.
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