Air India Ahmedabad-London Flight Crash: DNA Tests Underway to Confirm Victims’ Identities

In the wake of the tragic crash of the Air India Ahmedabad-to-London flight, Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the official death toll will only be released after DNA tests are conducted and the bodies are positively identified. The crash, which occurred under yet-to-be-confirmed circumstances, has shocked the nation and prompted an immediate, multi-agency investigation.

According to preliminary reports, the flight crashed shortly after takeoff due to suspected technical failure, although authorities have not ruled out other causes, including human error or sabotage. Rescue and recovery operations have been ongoing at the crash site, with emergency services working tirelessly to retrieve remains and personal belongings from the wreckage.

Amit Shah, addressing media and grieving families, emphasized the government’s commitment to transparency and due process. “We are fully committed to ensuring that every body is identified and handed over to the rightful family members. DNA matching is essential to avoid any confusion and to bring closure to the families,” Shah said.

The Centre has mobilized forensic teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) to assist in the identification process. Samples are being collected from the remains and matched with those provided by the families of passengers onboard. The process is expected to take several days, given the severity of the crash and the condition of the recovered bodies.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has ordered a high-level probe into the incident, with officials from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Air India, and Boeing participating. A black box recovery team has been deployed to retrieve the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, which are crucial for piecing together the final moments of the ill-fated journey.

Support centers have been set up in both Ahmedabad and London to assist affected families with counseling, legal support, and regular updates. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences and assured full government support to the bereaved.

As the nation awaits answers, authorities urge patience and caution against speculation. The final report is expected to be released only after a detailed forensic and technical examination. Until then, the focus remains on honoring the victims and providing support to their loved ones.