Thiruvananthapuram: All DNA examinations related to the bodies recovered in the Chooralmala and Mundakkai landslides will now be performed at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) in Thiruvananthapuram. This decision follows complaints regarding the inefficiency of tests conducted solely at the Kannur regional centre of the forensic lab. The Home Secretary has directed that all materials, including samples held by the Kannur Centre, be transferred to the Rajiv Gandhi Centre.
Ongoing search for the missing
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Currently, 47 individuals involved in the disaster are still missing and several unidentified bodies have been found. Blood samples collected from relatives of the missing persons are pending testing. The Kannur lab is also in possession of numerous body part samples that require verification against approximately 150 blood samples. The Rajiv Gandhi Centre has been assigned to expedite the DNA testing process.
Progress of post-mortem samples
So far, around 430 post-mortem samples have been sent to the Kannur lab, of which 110 have been identified. Given the current circumstances, only an interim report regarding the inspection can be issued at this time.
Administrative challenges addressed
A review meeting led by the Chief Secretary also addressed disputes among officials and other related issues. As a result, the meeting concluded that all tests will be conducted at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre.
The Wayanad Collector and Chief of Police have been instructed to provide necessary assistance to the Rajiv Gandhi Centre. The forensic lab has been directed to ensure the swift handover of samples.
Published: 30 Sept 2024, 09:51 am IST
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