Indian Internet Journal of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology
Indian Internet Journal of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (IIJFMT) is a peer-reviewed academic journal dedicated to the publication of high-quality research in the fields of forensic medicine and toxicology. The journal serves as a key resource for professionals, researchers, and academics, offering insights into the latest developments and challenges within these disciplines. IIJFMT covers a broad spectrum of topics, including forensic pathology, toxicology, clinical forensic medicine, and the application of forensic science in legal contexts. Through its commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, IIJFMT plays a vital role in supporting the ongoing development and application of forensic science.
A Study of Electrocution-Related Deaths: An Autopsy-Based Analysis at SMS Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur During the year 2023-24
Background: Electrocution is a largely preventable cause of mortality but continues to be a significant medico-legal and public health issue in India. It commonly occurs due to accidental contact with live wires, faulty appliances, or unsafe occupational practices, with suicidal and homicidal cases being rare. Aim: To analyze the demographic profile, injury patterns, and medico-legal aspects of electrocution-related deaths at SMS Medical College, Jaipur, during 2023–2024. Methodology: This observational study was conducted from November 2023 to October 2024 in the Department of Forensic Medicine, S.M.S. Medical College, Jaipur. A total of 100 medico-legal autopsy-confirmed cases of electrocution deaths were included after ethical approval and consent from legal heirs. Cases suspected but not confirmed on postmortem and decomposed bodies were excluded. Data were analyzed with respect to demographic details, site of injury, wound characteristics, voltage, associated burns, and cause of death. Result:Males predominated (89%) with only 11% females. The most affected age group was 20–29 years (37%), followed by 30–39 years (26%). Rural victims constituted 55% of cases. Hindus formed the majority (82%), reflecting regional demographics. The limbs were the most common sites of injury (lower limb 77%, upper limb 62%). Entry and exit wounds were noted in 52%, while 8% showed no external marks. Low voltage exposure accounted for 68% of deaths, and flame burns were seen in 48% of cases. Septicemia was the leading cause of death (55%), followed by shock due to electrocution (38%). Conclusion: Electrocution deaths predominantly affect young rural males engaged in high-risk occupatio ns. Most fatalities result from low-voltage exposure and septicemia following burns. The findings emphasize the importance of public awareness, enforcement of workplace safety standards, and meticulous medico-legal autopsy to prevent and correctly identify electrocution deaths.
Homicide Or Accident? Meticulous Forensic Investigation Solved The Case - A Case Report
History plays a great role in crime investigation. Inspite of that, autopsy findings and circumstantial evidence can lead to the actual truth. A 16-year-old boy was brought to the emergency with profuse bleeding from his left axilla and was declared dead. It was an alleged case of homicide, complained by the family members of the decease but after thorough investigation and post-mortem findings, the case led to somewhere else. It was claimed that victim was killed by his friends during a birthday party celebration. Autopsy finding revealed an incised wound over left axilla which led to transection of axillary artery and the victim died due to hypovolemic shock. Circumstantial evidence corroborated with autopsy findings and finally manner of death was established as accident.
Uncovering the Unexpected: Organochlorine Contamination in Viscera in a Fatal Neurocardiogenic Vasovagal Episode
Inquest is an inquiry or investigation into the cause of death in cases of unnatural deaths, or if there is any suspicion or foul play suspected by the law or investi gation agencies. On request of a Police or Magistrate, the forensic pathologist conducts the medico-legal post-mortem examination. Many a time, it leaves the doctor in a dilemma to determine the exact cause of death especially where the his tory from relatives, police and the facts observed in the autopsy do not match the dots with each other. In these cases, the forensic pathologist sends the viscera for chemical analysis to the FSL (Forensic Science laboratory), which helps the doctor to conclude conclusions. Still, the forensic expert should not stop here giving full recognition to the viscera report only, instead, he should have done the autopsy meticulously and given importance to other factors in the crime scene, keeping all the differentials in his open mind. This case report explores the accidental discov ery of organochlorine compounds in the viscera of a deceased patient who suffered a neurocardiogenic vasovagal shock. The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) detected these compounds during routine toxicological analysis. The findings were incongruous with the clinical diagnosis of vasovagal shock and prompted further investigation into the potential sources and health implications of these substances. This report underscores the necessity of comprehensive forensic investigation and the potential for environmental contaminants to complicate death investigations.
Right To Parenthood- A Left Crevice in Surrogacy Regulation Act 2021: Re view
Surrogacy refers to a practice whereby one woman bears and gives birth to a child for an intended couple with the intention of handing over such a child to the intended couple after birth. The right to parenthood, often referred to as the right to procreate or reproductive rights, is a fundamental human right. It encompasses individuals’ ability to make decisions about having and raising children without undue interference from the state or other entities. This right is rooted in various legal and constitutional principles including the right to privacy, family autonomy, and personal liberty. In this case, we have tried to scrutinize the laws of the surrogacy act and how they impacted the life of an intending couple. The Supreme Court has protected the right of parenthood of a woman suffering from a rare medical condition by staying the operation of a law that threatened to wreck her hopes to become a mother through surrogacy
Traumatic Subacute on Chronic Subdural Hematoma: An Autopsy-based Case Report
A typical consequence of head trauma and a notable finding during such autopsies is subdural hematoma (SDH). Upon diagnosis, a variety of clinical manifestations, including the lethal acute SDH, subacute, or chronic SDH (CSDH), may be present. Sometimes, these traumas may be so trivial that the exact history of incidence may be difficult to elicit, especially in the cases of subacute and chronic SDH. The signs of subacute SDH are usually evident only after three days to 2 to 3 weeks and grossly appear during autopsy as dark red-black liquefied blood with blood clots. CSDH is a gelatinous membrane with outer and inner layers adherent to dura matter. The present case is of a 47-year-old man with histories of falls, at his residence, first two years no history of treatment was there and a recent fall, about two weeks and led to the initial presentation of hemiparesis and hospitalization with a diagnosis of SDH, the patient died after a week. This article discusses the findings observed in the case where the cause of death was due to the complication of SDH, which was found to be subacute on the chronic type. Such cases usually present late to the hospital due to delayed symptom onset, and high suspicion of such cases should be kept when patients have a history of minor trauma or bleeding disorders and especially when the patient is elderly. Such cases necessitate immediate diagnosis via imaging modalities of the intracranial hemorrhages and necessary intervention.
Digital Roentgenography of Elbow Joint for Age Estimation in Living Individuals of Gujarat.
Age estimation by the use of X-rays is an age-old method of identification. However, there can be variations depending upon various factors such as age, an individual’s genetic makeup, diet, geographical habitat, and so on. Creating a regional database is need of the hour-rays of the elbow joints of individuals of Gujarat were studied by using Microsoft Office Picture Manager 2010 version for the appearance of ossification centers and epiphyseal fusion in the Department of Forensic Medicine and Department of Radio-diagnosis at a Medical College in Ahmedabad, Gujarat after the approval from Institutional Ethics Committee. All the findings showed a statistically significant association between age groups and the appearance of ossification centers and epiphyseal fusion. The study’s findings are discussed and compared to previous studies by authors from the Indian sub-continent &foreign. The persistence of epiphyseal scar on some bones may be influenced by factors other than chronological age.
The Transformative Impact of AI in Forensic Medicine: Innovations, Chal lenges, and Ethical Implications
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing forensic medicine by enhancing the accuracy, efficiency, and scope of criminal investigations and victim identification. AI technologies, such as image and pattern recognition, DNA analysis, and predictive analytics, offer unique opportunities to improve forensic practices. However, the integration of AI into forensic medicine presents significant challenges, including technological implementation, data security, infrastructure needs, and training of professionals. Furthermore, ethical implications surrounding privacy, accountability, bias, consent, and human rights are central to the responsible use of AI in forensic contexts. The collection of sensitive personal data and the potential for AI to influence critical legal decisions raises concerns about transparency, fairness, and the protection of individual rights. To ensure the responsible application of AI in forensic medicine, it is essential to develop comprehensive guidelines, regulations, and ethical frameworks. As AI technology evolves, balancing innovation with ethical considerations will be crucial. Future progress in AI in forensic medicine will require ongoing collaboration between forensic scientists, AI researchers, legal professionals, and policymakers. By addressing these challenges and ethical dilemmas, the integration of AI can significantly enhance justice, public safety, and victim closure, while maintaining the integrity of the justice system. Ultimately, the successful integration of AI into forensic practices depends on caution, foresight, and a commitment to ethical principles to safeguard both technological advancements and fundamental human rights.
Evidential Interpretation Of Medicolegal Opinion: Pardgim Shift From Medical To Legal?
The criminal justice system provides remedies for offences, as defined by the law of the land. So far as “offences against human” in India are concerned, the erstwhile Indian Penal Code (IPC), Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), and Indian Evidence Act (IEA)were major laws that witnessed many amendments. The BHARATIYA NYAYA SANHITA, 2023 (BNS) completely repealed the former IPC last year. Criminal investigation agencies rely mainly on examination of a person- living or dead–as the case may be and subsequently report of such examination by the Registered Medical Practitioner (RMP) / board of experts form a critical base for further investigations and legal recourse. Once the case is committed for trial, the opinion of RMP and analysis reports of various samples collected are also of immense importance for the prosecution side. The medicolegal opinion by RMP is based on one’s personal knowledge of “Forensic Medicine & Toxicology” coupled with practical exposure to such cases. The recent biomedical and legal literature permits one to conclude that the evidential interpretation of such opinion/s is more legal than that based on medical science. With due respect to all concerned stakeholders of the Criminal Justice Delivery System”, an attempt has been made to review the present scenario and contemplate solutions, if desired.
Spontaneous Rupture of the Liver Seen at Autopsy: A Case Report of a Rare Cause of Death in Custody and Literature Review
Death in custody is a death of a person in the custody of the police or other authorities or while in prison. When the causes are studied, they are usually from natural causes with the heart diseases constituting the majority of cases. We present a case of death in custody from spontaneous liver rupture, a rare condition with very few cases reported in literature. We are not aware of any reported case of death in custody secondary to spontaneous liver rupture. High index of suspicion is required for early diagnosis of spontaneous liver rupture and should be considered as a possible cause of death in custody. Adequate medical history of the detainee is important and crucial as they can detect fatal condition and the prison staff must act promptly to address any medical concerns of the inmates.
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Injuries over Neck due to Ligature Materials in case of Hanging of Varanasi Region of U.P.
Background: Deaths by ligation of neck are in practice from the time immemorial and before advent of civilization. In uncivilized societies, the application of ligation for taking away the life of another person was one of the commonest practices which were successfully carried out into the civilized societies. Hanging is that form of violent asphyxial death in which ligature marks are found and it is mainly based on the constricting forces which is : (i) either by the exclusion of air from lungs or oxygenated blood from the brain, (ii) by means of ligature around the neck, (iii) the constricting force is the weight of the body. Results: The data of present cross-sectional study of 100 cases with the aim, injuries over neck due to ligature was collected from in the Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, Institute of Medical Science (IMS), BHU, Varanasi, U.P. India. The total duration of sampling was six months and different aspects such as sex ratio, age group involved, residence, ligature material used type of hanging, place of hanging, the Position of the knot and other external findings involved were taking under consideration. Conclusions: It was found that the most common cause of death in Varanasi region was Socio-economic Status of the victims with a male: female ratio of 1.8:1 with age group of 20- 29 years being most commonly involved.
Unmasking the Perils of Festive Fasting: A Clinical and Legal Insight into Buckwheat Poisoning During Janmashtami
During the Hindu festival of Janmashtami, many people fast and consume buckwheat flour (kuttu ka atta) as a gluten-free substitute. However, incidents of buckwheat poisoning have surfaced, raising concerns regarding its safety during fasting. This study aimed to investigate the clinical and epidemiological characteristics, identify predictors of severity, evaluate biochemical markers, and examine the medicolegal implications of buckwheat poisoning associated with Janmashtami fasting. A retrospective review was conducted of 110 patients admitted with suspected buckwheat poisoning at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Data on demographics, clinical symptoms, severity factors, and biochemical parameters were collected, followed by analysis. The study also explored medicolegal dimensions to understand the broader impact of these poisoning cases. The findings revealed that most patients were adult males from lower socioeconomic groups. The most common symptoms observed were gastrointestinal issues, respiratory problems, and neurological disturbances. Factors predicting the severity of poisoning were identified, including the amount of buckwheat consumed, existing health conditions, and delays in seeking medical care. Biochemical analysis revealed elevated levels of markers corresponding to the severity of symptoms. Medicolegal analysis pointed to shortcomings in food safety regulations, labelling, and public awareness, suggesting potential legal liabilities for food vendors and producers. Buckwheat poisoning during Janmashtami fasting presents a notable health risk, necessitating public health measures and stricter food safety standards. Healthcare providers should be particularly alert during fasting periods, and public awareness campaigns are essential to prevent future cases. Medicolegal considerations highlight the need for robust food safety legislation and improved consumer education to safeguard the public health.
Case Report of Neurocardiogenic Vasovagal Shock: “A Medicolegal Mas- querade”
Autopsy plays a significant role in determining the cause of both natural and unnatural deaths. Identifying the cause of death becomes more challenging when it occurs suddenly and rapidly, particularly in cases involving trauma, whether known or unknown, or in a case of concealed underlying pathology. The role of cardiac inhibitory reflex as a potential cause of death remains debatable. This case report describes a fatal incident of such nature. The reasons for such neurocardiogenic vasovagal shock can be attributed to sudden shock or strong emotions and injury to specific areas such as the carotid sinus, various plexuses, testicles, and serous membranes. Even minor trauma to these areas can lead to sudden death. This case report describes a 43-year-old male who was assaulted by his neighbour as a result of a long-standing feud and died almost immediately after minor trauma to the neck and chest.
Forensic examination of Castor seeds (Ricin): Analytical method develop ment using ALS microscopy, Planar Chromatography and UV-spectroscopy
Ricin, a highly toxic protein found in castor bean seeds, is a potential agent for biological warfare and a major concern for national authorities worldwide. The assassination of Georgi Markov using ricin highlighted the forensic importance of detecting this poison. The present study aims to develop an analytical method, to facilitate detection and forensic analysis of ricin. The study employs visual characterization to examine the physical features of the seeds, and thin-layer chromatography (TLC), and UV visible spectrometry for chemical examination to confirm the presence of ricin. The research design involves conducting solvent extraction and TLC, followed by optical characterization by the use of UV-Vis spectrometry, for quick and unambiguous identification of ricin for forensic purposes. This study reports, for the first time, extensive morphological analysis of castor seeds, green solvent extraction and optimization of TLC. By developing an easy and effective method for the examination of castor seeds and ricin, this study provides a reliable additional test for detecting ricin in castor seeds, which is crucial for forensic and security purposes.
Marked By Belief: The Dark Superstition Of Child Branding
Branding often referred to by local tribal communities as ‘asaeba,’ ‘chapba,’ ‘lachba’ or ‘chenka is the process of inflicting burns on the skin of a living being. The act of branding in children, particularly as part of a superstitious belief, is harmful and unethical. It is essential to emphasize that branding or marking children can have severe physical and psychological consequences. Such actions are generally not supported by ethical or legal standards and can lead to serious harm to the child’s well-being. Two distinct cases were brought to the Pediatric Trauma and Emergency Department at the tertiary care center of Raipur: one involving a history of loss of consciousness, and the other presenting with seizures, both accompanied by multiple burn wounds over the body. Clinical forensic medicine unit consultation was sought in view of the unusual presentation of burn wounds, which upon detailed evaluation was found to be branding, a superstitious practice in villages with an intention to cure the disease. The act of branding as part of a superstitious belief is a culturally specific practice that can vary widely across societies and communities. It is crucial to approach these topics with cultural sensitivity and understanding of human rights and child welfare. A differential diagnosis of child abuse should be considered when dealing with such cases.
‘An Unusual Case Of Dyadic Death’- A Case Report
A dyadic death is a rare but tragic form of Premeditated violence that involves the death of two people at the same time (homicide followed by a suicide), or suicide pact, where a person kills another person and then commits suicide. Dyadic deaths make up a small proportion of homicide overall, commonly in low socio-economic, less educated or illiterate families. This is a case report on one such incident where the perpetrator killed the victim with whom he had a long-standing property dispute and also his own mother who tried to stop him from doing the act, following which he killed himself by shooting himself with a .315 pistol.
Examining The Unseen: Rare Homicide at Unusual Spot with Unusual Injury
male with an unusual firearm entry wound on the surface of the small intestinal loop, which was surgically exposed (open laparotomy wound), causing extensive internal damage and hemorrhage. The bullet recovered from the subcutaneous plane on the right side of the abdomen. The death was due to hemorrhagic shock caused by a firearm injury to the internal abdominal organs. What sets this case apart in the literature is not just the tragic nature of the event but the context in which it occurred—a hospital, a place inherently associated with safety and healing. In the landscape of forensic and medical literature, this case stands out because of the intersection of violence and healthcare, which challenges the norms of both fields. This incident highlights the critical need for enhanced security measures in hospitals to prevent violence against patients and doctors. This examination not only provides crucial insights into the nature of gunshot wounds and their impact on internal organs but also emphasizes the broader implications for hospital security and patient safety.
Exploring the Coroner System within the United States
In the present day, the United States does not have a standardized system in place for medicolegal death investigations. Within the 50 U.S. states and 16 territories, there is variability regarding whether the coroner or medical examiner system is utilized. These systems can then be broken down further into; centralized state medical examiner’s offices, county or district medical examiner’s offices, mixed system states (both coroners and medical examiners are utilized), and coroner-only states. Certain states may have coroners that are also under the title of “justice of the peace” (Texas) or “sheriff-coroner” (California). Below is a list of which states and territories fall into their respective systems:
Practicing Forensic Pathology in the USA
Before I give you some perspective on what it is like to practice forensic pathology in the United States, I would like to give you an idea of my professional background and education. My career as a pathologist extends for 56 years, and as a forensic pathologist/neuropathologist, 50/48 years. I have four boards in pathology: Anatomic Pathology, Clinical Pathology, Forensic Pathology, and Neuropathology. My comments are meant to provide you with a perspective on what some of my colleagues and I have experienced in practicing forensic pathology in the United States.
To Assess the Knowledge Attitude & Perception Towards Informed Consent Among Medical Students, Navi Mumbai
Informed consent is a fundamental ethical and legal requirement in medical practice in both the field of research and therapeutics This ensures that patients are made aware of and agree to the proposedintervention. Medical students at all levels of education are taught to provide clear and understandable information about the risks, benefits, and alternatives to patients, allowing them to make autonomous and informed decisions. A cross-sectional study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding informed consent among medical students in and across Navi Mumbai. A cross-sectional,observational, questionnaire-based study was conducted using a validated questionnaire.
Human-wildlife conflicts, particularly those involving large predators like Panthera species (lions, leopards, and tigers), have become an increasing global public health concern in recent years, especially in Southeast Asia. These conflicts often result in serious injuries and fatalities within affected communities. While not uncommon, attacks by Panthera species can lead to devastating traumatic injuries due to the animals' strength and powerful bites. In this specific case, a worker at Abheda Biological Park entered the tiger enclosure and was attacked, sustaining multiple injuries that led to his death. Upon examination, the victim had numerous puncture and laceration wounds to the neck and chest, with internal injuries affecting the neck, lungs, and cervical spine. Serious injuries from wild animal attacks, especially from tigers, are commonly characterized by deep tissue damage and lacerations due to the animal’s powerful jaws and sharp teeth. This case report aims to highlight the specific injury patterns associated with tiger attacks, offering critical insights for healthcare providers. By understanding these patterns, medical professionals can be better equipped to treat the severe and often unique injuries resulting from such encounters in the future.
A Case Report on Traumatic Head Injury Leading to Air Embolism
A 15-year-old male was assaulted by several people living near his home. He had a few abrasions, contusions, and minor fractures of the skull bone. The patient survived for approximately 22 hours while undergoing conservative treatment. On post-mortem examination, frothy blood was seen coming out from the right ventricle, along with numerous air bubbles in the jugular veins and heart, eliciting the diagnosis of air embolism. The case presented here draws attention to the fact that a simple head injury, augmented by lapses in treatment due to a lack of suspicion, can lead to fatal degrees of air embolism.
Salvia divinorum – A New Entity in the Psychedelic Scene in India
Salvia divinorum is a psychoactive plant that produces intense hallucinations and is used as a recreational drug increasingly. The Mazatec Indians used it in spiritual healing sessions. The fact that the drug is easily available through the internet and the lack of restrictions on its use in many countries have contributed to its widespread abuse. There have also been reports of drugs being used in India.
Assessing Alternative Specimens for Toxicological Analysis: A Review
The use of alternative matrices in toxicological analyses has increased in forensic toxicological analysis. Alternative samples to blood, visceral organs, and urine are useful for reliability and comprehensiveness regarding generating toxicological profiles. The article critically reviews recent literature on alternative matrices like oral fluid, hair, skeletal tissue, sweat, cerebrospinal fluid, meconium, breast milk, and vitreous humor and their applications in forensic toxicology. It analyzes the characteristics, advantages, limitations, and applications of alternative matrices in drug and poison analysis. This review article further discusses the characteristics of biological matrices used in forensic analyses as substitutes for whole blood, urine, and viscera samples. Each matrix type has advantages regarding sampling, preservation, extraction methods, detection time frame, drug levels, and other factors. However, these matrices also have limitations, such as limited drug incorporation, correlation with concentrations for effects, low xenobiotic levels, and the need for proper sample preparation and analysis. Although there is data on detecting traditional drugs of abuse in alternative matrices, information on the detection of emerging illicit drugs in these matrices is scarcer. Alternative biological specimens play a crucial role in forensic toxicology, but they come with distinct limitations and characteristics that must be considered. The results from analyzing these samples may differ based on the type of specimen. Alternative matrices will remain a focus in forensic toxicology due to their benefits and potential use when blood, urine, or visceral organs are inaccessible or impractical, particularly in cases like drug-facilitated sexual assault, burnt bodies, or decomposed remains.
Delayed Fatal Outcome in Hanging: A Case Report
Hanging is a type of asphyxia caused by the suspension of the body by a ligature around the neck, with the constricting force being the weight of the body. This method is notably prevalent among young adults as a means of suicide, primarily due to its painless nature and the fact that death typically occurs almost instantaneously, usually within a fatal period of 3–5 minutes. Most patients develop respiratory and neurological complications immediately after their onset. Survival is rare, and those who survive often face delayed complications of hanging, which can occur days or even months after the incident. A case report of a young female who died due to delayed death from hanging occurred 4 months and 2 days after the incident. The patient eventually died due to aspiration pneumonia, which is one of the most fatal complications.
An Unusual Intravesical Foreign Body – Erotogenic Masochism with a Brief Review
A wide range of unusual foreign bodies in the bladder has been reported in the literature. The urethra is the main entrance if the foreign body is inserted into the urinary tract. We present a report regarding a Hindu male aged 16 years, who was admitted in the Urology Department of S.P. Medical College and Associated Group of Hospital, Bikaner, on 3.12.2007 with complaints of pain in the lower abdomen and blood in urine. The X-ray examination revealed a foreign body in the urinary bladder, which was removed by an urologist. The case was referred to a psychiatrist, who took the patients into confidence and diagnosed him as case erotogenic masochism.
Sudden Death Due to Mechanical Failure of Prosthetic Aortic Valve: A Case Report
One of the major reasons of sudden natural deaths is cardiac arrests. Forensic pathologists rarely encounter sudden deaths in individuals who are already suffering from a cardiac problem. In case the deceased has undergone surgery for such a pre-condition then the treating physician usually issues a cause of death certificate. Failure of cardiac valve prosthesis can lead to sudden death. A 45-year-old male suddenly died 3 ½ months after he underwent aortic valve replacement with size 21 TTK CHITRA TILTING DISC VALVE under cardio pulmonary bypass for rheumatic aortic stenosis and regurgitation. The autopsy revealed that death occurred due to a mechanical failure of the prosthetic aortic valve – after ruling out all other possible causes.
Hair analysis for drug abuse has been gaining increasing significance in forensic sciences. Hair is a special evidence used for the investigation of chronic drug of abuse or poisoning in criminal cases. It provides results with sensitive methods even if the drug is present in low amount. Segmental hair analysis can yield information about the time course of the substance used. Forensic hair analysis generally involves cases where the drug history of an individual is required. The hair analysis has to be undertaken by a specialist forensic toxicologist and the test is sometimes referred to as a ‘hair follicle test’. Apart from collecting samples of hair for analysis, the forensic group involves an internationally recognized specialist forensic hair toxicologist who reviews work already completed by other forensic hair toxicologists. The hair sampling, sample preparation, and analytical performance are very important for final results. The outcomes of hair analysis have been reviewed by dividing the drugs into six groups: opiates, cocaine, amphetamines, cannabinoids, abused therapeutic drugs, and the markers of chronic alcohol consumption.
Trends of Fatal Poisoning in Vadodara (Mid-Gujarat)
Poisoning is one of the most common methods to commit suicide in India. Most of the population in India resides in rural areas, where pesticides are commonly used in farming, and that is why it is the most common poisoning in India. Vadodara is the ‘chemical city’ of Gujarat, because chemical factories are more here, and consequently the incidences of accidental and intentional poisoning are also higher at this centre. A detailed knowledge about the nature and magnitude of the poisoning cases in this particular area is significant for early diagnosis and prompt treatment. To know the trends of fatal poisoning in mid-Gujarat, we conducted a retrospective study in the Department of Forensic Medicine, S.S.G. Hospital and Medical College, Vadodara. A total of 289 cases of fatal poisoning were brought to us for post-mortem examination during the span of 1 year (from January to December 2008), and therefore all data related to age, sex and seasonal variation with manner of poisoning were studied with detailed autopsy examination. The results of chemical analysis of routine viscera were subsequently analysed after receiving forensic science laboratory reports. Our study revealed that the majority of victims were Hindus, males 21-30 years of age who died due to self-ingestion of insecticide poison in the initial months of the year.
Reliability and Significance of Forensic Anthropology in Personal Identification in Comparison with DNA Profiling Technique in South Indian Population Using Case Studies
Identification of a decomposed dead body is a universal problem for police agencies in all countries. The method of identification relied on in a country may vary based on the established identification techniques in its forensic sciences laboratories. The DNA profiling and the skull-photograph superimposition (SPS) are the two techniques employed in forensic laboratories to identify the decomposed human heads recovered from scenes of crime. While identification through DNA profiling is unambiguous and hence conclusive, SPS seem to provide only a probable opinion. Hence, SPS technique is considered only second to DNA profiling due to its inability to establish ‘matchless’ identity. For instance, similarities of the facial features of the victim to his/her siblings and close relatives pose a major challenge in conclusively establishing the identity of the victim. Since the Court of Law admits only conclusive evidences rather than probable opinions, experts from Forensic Anthropology Unit in forensic science laboratories often face difficult situations defending results based on SPS techniques. Though it might appear as if DNA profiling would fulfil the requirements of identification in all the cases, it is not so in many instances. In many vital cases, DNA profiling has also failed in providing corroborative evidence. This paper highlights the significance of Forensic Anthropology Unit by exploring its definite role in the identification of victims in various cases in different situations with case studies.
Accidental Death Due to Autoerotic Asphyxia: A Case Report
This paper presents the case of a 26-year-old hotel management student who accidentally suffocated and died while practicing autoerotic asphyxia. The findings suggested that his death was accidental and due to asphyxia by suffocation performed to enhance sexual gratification during masturbation.