Medico Legal Update is a double-blind peer reviewed journal which brings the latest knowledge regarding changing medico legal scenarios within India and globally to its readers. The journal caters to specialties of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Science, DNA fingerprinting, Toxicology, Environmental hazards, Sexual Medicine, Forensic Anatomy, Forensic Anthropology, Forensic Odontology, Criminology and medico-legal aspects of civil, criminal, public and informational laws and public policies.The journal is also indexed with Google Scholar, Scilit, CINAHL, EBSCOhost (USA) and many other international databases.The journal has been assigned international standard serial number (ISSN) 0971-720X. The journal is registered with Registrar of Newspaper for India vide registration numbers 63757/96 under Press and Registration of Books act, 1867. This is an open access journal which means that all content is freely available without charge to the user or his/her institution. Users are allowed to read, download, copy, distribute, print, search, or link to the full texts of the articles, or use them for any other lawful purpose, without asking prior permission from the publisher or the author. This is in accordance with the BOAI definition of open access.The Journal is indexed with Google Scholar, Scilit,EBSCOhost (USA) and many other international databases. Medico legal updateis a quarterly journal. The journal has also been assigned E-ISSN 0974-1283 (Electronic version). The first issue of the journal was published in 2005.
Digital Footprint of Crime: Exploring The Relationship between Social Media and Criminal Behaviour
Social media has laid a strong foundation in everyone’s daily life. It not only reshaped our communication style but also our thoughts and routine activities. This research paper explores the relationship between social media and criminal behaviour. The digital footprints can include messages, shared media, location check-ins and interactions that can be traced and analysed for behavioural pattern. These digital traces have emerged as crucial tools in both committing and solving crimes. Digital platforms provided new pathway to engage in criminal activities. The accessibility and reach of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat allow criminals to operate anonymously, target victims globally, and coordinate illegal activities discreetly. Social media can also play a role in the radicalization process, where individuals are exposed to extremist content, misinformation, or ideological grooming within online communities. By the results obtained through survey and research articles we found that social media represents a powerful double-edged sword (around 83%), it plays a major role in both construction and destruction of criminal behaviours. The digital footprint behaviour is the vital resource for crime detection and prevention. By knowing this relationship it will be an effective tool for developing criminal zjustice responses, digital literacy education, and ethical guidelines in the digital era. As technology continues to evolve, so too must our approaches to managing its impact on criminal behaviour and law enforcement practices.
Footprint, crime, criminal, social, media, Forensic, Science.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Qualitative Detection of milk Adulterants A Qualitative study on milk Adulterants in Capital of Jharkhand, Ranchi India
Introduction: Food is essential for sustenance of life. Adulteration of food cheats the consumer and can pose serious risk to health in some cases. major food adulteration and contamination events seems to occur with some regularities, such as the widely publicized adulteration of milk products with melamine and the recent microbial contamination of vegetables across Europe for example. With globalization and rapid distribution systems, these can have international impacts with far–reaching and sometimes lethal consequences. These events, through potentially global in the modern era, are in fact far from contemporary and deliberate adulteration of food products is probably as old as the food processing and production system Themselves. Food forensic is a sub field of forensic chemistry which is used to detect when it is contaminated or adulterant, it helps to check the purity of the food item. Food adulteration is the most leading fraud which is growing rapidly. Methodology: The study was conducted is several stages to assess the presence of adulterants in the milk samples collected from different local areas of Ranchi. the methodology involved the following steps such as sample collection, presumptive testing, documentation and data recording, Analysis, interpretation using forensic chemistry principles. Results: The qualitative analysis of 11 different brands of milk samples collected from different regions of Ranchi revealed a significant presence of hydrogen peroxide, starch, sodium chloride etc. the presumptive tests detected multiple adulterants that pose considerable health risk to consumers. Conclusion: The study demonstrate that milk adulteration is a prevalent and alarming issue in the city of Ranchi. It also emphasizes the urgent need for regulatory bodies, public health authorities, and forensic science professionals to work collaboratively to ensure the availability of safe and unadulterated milk for all consumers.
Adulteration of food, globalization, and rapid distribution system, adulterants, forensic chemistry presumptive
Use of Aquaporins as Biomarkers in Drowning Cases: Review Paper
Drowning remains a major challenge in forensic practice, particularly in distinguishing whether immersion occurred before or after death and in differentiating between freshwater and saltwater drowning. Traditionally, the diatom test has been the primary tool for confirming drowning, but its limitations in sensitivity and specificity highlight the need for alternative approaches. Aquaporins (AQPs), a family of water channel proteins, have emerged as potential biomarkers in drowning investigations due to their role in water transport and osmotic regulation. This review consolidates findings from published studies that employed immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF) to evaluate the expression of AQP subtypes (AQP2, AQP4, AQP5) in lung, kidney, and brain tissues. Evidence indicates that hypo-expression of AQP5 is associated with freshwater drowning, while AQP2 and AQP4 show distinct patterns useful in differentiating drowning types. By highlighting these results, the study emphasizes that aquaporin markers may complement or even improve upon the diatom test, offering a promising diagnostic tool in forensic investigations of drowning deaths.
Aquaporins, drowning, biomarkers, diatom test, immunohistochemistry, forensic pathology
Touch Dna with Nano Forensics: A Forerunner in The New Era
The integration of touch DNA analysis with nano-forensic technology presents a revolutionary advancement in the field of criminology, offering a new frontier in forensic investigations. Touch DNA refers to the genetic material left behind from even the slightest contact with an object or surface, making it a valuable tool for identifying individuals involved in a crime scene. Traditionally, the collection and analysis of such minute samples posed challenges in terms of sensitivity and accuracy. However, recent advancements in nanotechnology have significantly enhanced the capability to detect and analyse trace amounts of DNA with unprecedented precision. Nano-forensic technology employs nanoscale materials and devices that can magnify the analysis of biological evidence at the molecular level, improving the detection of DNA from touch samples. These innovations enable forensic experts to extract, amplify, and sequence DNA from surfaces previously deemed too contaminated or insufficient for traditional methods. The development of nanoparticles, biosensors, and nanochips has led to the creation of more efficient, faster, and cost-effective DNA analysis tools, which are particularly useful in criminal investigations where evidence may be scarce or compromised. Methodologically, this study evaluates DNA recovery rates across various surfaces (e.g., non-porous vs. porous materials) and compares extraction techniques, highlighting the superiority of silica-coated MNPs (92% recovery) over conventional methods (65–72%). Nano-assisted PCR and microfluidic systems reduced processing time to under 1 hour while maintaining high precision (99.1% allele calling accuracy). Emerging technologies like CRISPR-based enrichment and nanopore sequencing further address challenges in mixed DNA profiles and inhibitor-rich samples.Results demonstrate that nano-forensics enables viable DNA profiling from previously undetectable traces, such as fingerprints on fabrics or degraded cold-case evidence. Field applications showed a 78% success rate in generating actionable leads from lowtemplate DNA. The integration of artificial intelligence and portable nano-devices promises real-time, on-site forensic analysis, transforming criminal investigations. This paper concludes that nano-forensics not only overcomes the limitations of traditional touch DNA analysis but also sets a new standard for forensic science, offering unparalleled resolution in justice-driven applications. Future directions include standardization and cost reduction to facilitate global adoption.
DNA, nano forensics, touch, criminal, justice.
Psychological Autopsy: A Tool for Resolving Equivocal Deaths
In equivocal deaths especially in cases of suicide where the reason for suicide is not evident, and in cases where manner of death is doubtful as in accidental fall or homicidal fall, or suicidal or accidental hanging, a retrospective & thorough investigation about the victims Intention, State of mind and Individual’s actions before death called Psychological Autopsy, provides a significant clue to the investigating team. The furtherinvestigation through psychological autopsy requires a detailed interviewing of the close family members, relatives, friends and colleagues or acquaintances of the deceased regarding the various contributing factors which may get revealed subsequently which can helps in delineating the manner and reason for the instant death. This article brings about the objective of psychological autopsy, the interviewing areas which needs to be explored while conducting this procedure, it’s legal acceptance and limitations.Also discussing here various caseswhere psychological autopsy supported the investigative team and forensic experts to appease the queries in the mind of the relatives, friends, and family members to the sudden unexpected loss of their dear ones.
Psychological Autopsy; Equivocal deaths; Manner; Suicide; fall; Forensic medicine.
Narcotics and Juvenile Delinquency: Exploring The Role of Drugs in The Formation of Youth Criminals in India
The alarming rise in Juvenile Delinquency in India has become a significant concern for policymakers, legal authorities, and social institutions. Among the various contributing factors, narcotic drug abuse has emerged as a critical yet underexplored dimension influencing the behavioral and criminal trajectories of youth. This study investigates the correlation between narcotics consumption and the development of delinquent tendencies among juveniles in India. Employing a multidisciplinary framework that integrates criminology, psychology, and legal analysis, the research examines socio-economic, familial, and psychological conditions that predispose adolescents to drug use and subsequent criminal behavior. The study also evaluates the effectiveness of existing legal mechanisms, including the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, in addressing the nexus between substance abuse and juvenile crime. The findings underscore the necessity of comprehensive intervention strategies encompassing education, community support, and mental health care to mitigate narcotic-induced delinquency. This research contributes to the broader discourse on juvenile justice by offering actionable insights for legal reform, public policy, and youth rehabilitation in India.
Juvenile Delinquency, Narcotics, Drug Abuse, NDPS Act, Juvenile Justice Act.
Developing Latent Fingerprints from Surface of Eggshell using Physical Methods
The development of latent fingerprints on unconventional surfaces, such as eggshells, presents unique challenges due to their fragile and porous nature. This study focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of two physical methods—black powder and fluorescent powder—in developing latent fingerprints on eggshell surfaces under both normal conditions and when covered with plastic bubble wrap. A total of ten samples were tested for each condition. Results indicate that black powder consistently produced better fingerprint contrast, with five samples showing excellent visibility under normal conditions and moderate success even under plastic wrap. In contrast, fluorescent powder demonstrated poor performance overall, with no samples displaying excellent contrast and a significant number yielding weak or no visibility, especially when surface conditions were altered by plastic covering. The findings suggest that black powder is more suitable for fingerprint development on eggshell surfaces, while fluorescent powder is limited in its effectiveness, particularly under textured or wrapped conditions. This study highlights the importance of selecting appropriate physical methods for latent print development on delicate biological surfaces.
Latent fingerprint, Egg shell, Black powder, fluorescent powder, Plastic bubble wrap
Latent Fingerprint Development on Multiple Surfaces: A Comparative Analysis using Black Sindoor (Black Vermillion), Redsindoor (Red Vermillion), and Sandalwood Powder
The research deals with development of latent fingerprint on different surfaces using commercially available natural powders like red sindoor(red vermillion), black sindoor (black vermillion),and sandalwood. Paper describe new method of developing latent fingerprints using simple and non-toxic powders which are easily available and have variety of domestics and traditional uses. The study is to evaluate how well these powders reveal latent prints on a variety of surfaces using forensic procedures. The research aims to clarify the advantages and disadvantages of each powder type with respect to surface type (Glass surface,lamination sheet, transparencysheet, metal surface,woodensurface, plainpaper, cardboard, plastic, tile, and steel)using methodical experimentation and comparative analysis. It has been observed that the results are positive on almost all the surfaces. Ultimately, this study contributes to enhancing forensic methodologies for latent fingerprint detection and analysis, thereby aiding law enforcement agencies in criminal investigations and justice administration
Psychological Consequences of Whistleblower Retaliation in India’s Healthcare Sector: A Forensic Qualitative Study
Whistleblowing in India’s healthcare sector involves significant personal, professional, and psychological risk. While legal frameworks like the Whistleblower Protection Act (2014) exist, the emotional and mental health consequences of retaliation remain under-researched, particularly through forensic psychological and culturally informed lenses. This qualitative study explores the psychological impact of whistleblower retaliation among healthcare professionals across government, private, and semi-government institutions. Grounded in a constructivist paradigm, the study employed semi-structured, in-person interviews with 20 participants, including doctors, nurses, interns, administrators, and allied health workers selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis, six key themes emerged: psychological impact, forms of retaliation, barriers to whistleblowing, institutional silence and mental health apathy, coping strategies, and reform recommendations. Participants reported symptoms such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, emotional withdrawal, and somatic distress, often shaped by cultural values of obedience, hierarchy, and shame. The study introduces two novel constructs, shame-based silencing and learned despair, to describe trauma responses stemming from institutional betrayal and social invalidation. Findings highlight a lack of effective support systems, with grievance mechanisms seen as performative and mental health services perceived as inaccessible or biased. Forensic psychology offers a lens to reframe whistleblowers not as threats but as morally driven individuals in need of empathy, protection, and trauma-informed care. The study calls for urgent, culturally sensitive reforms in policy, training, and mental health infrastructure, positioning psychological well-being as essential to ethical governance in healthcare.
Molecular Forensics of Indian Wildlife: Species Identification through COI Gene Barcoding and Bioinformatics Analysis
In wildlife forensics, precise species identification is essential, particularly in cases involving poaching, illegal wildlife trade, and biodiversity conservation. Molecular technologies are necessary for accurate forensic analysis since traditional morphological methods frequently fail when biological specimens are processed, incomplete, or degraded. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) has proven particularly useful in these situations because of its large copy number, maternal mode of inheritance, and increased stability in damaged tissues. The cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene is one of the most commonly used mtDNA markers for DNA barcoding due to its high interspecies variability, evolutionary conservation, and inclusion in extensive international databases. This study examined the COI gene sequences of ten often encountered domestic and wild Indian species: Elephas maximus (elephant), Bos gaurus (gaur), Bos taurus (domestic cow), Axis axis (chital), Axis porcinus (hog deer), Macaca mulatta (rhesus macaque), Pavo cristatus (Indian peacock), Sus scrofa (wild boar), and Panthera tigris (tiger) and Panthera pardus (leopard). COI sequences that are publicly accessible were obtained from NCBI GenBank database. BLAST was used for sequence validation, and Clustal Omega was used for multiple sequence alignment. Using MEGA12, a neighbor-joining tree was constructed and pairwise distance analysis was performed to evaluate genetic distance and phylogenetic relationships. Significant genetic divergence was found among the species under study, and the phylogenetic tree showed grouping patterns that aligned with established taxonomic relationships. These results demonstrate that COI-based DNA barcoding is a reliable method for differentiating between closely related species.
species identification, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI gene), mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), DNA barcoding, wildlife forensics, bioinformatics tools
Ear Prints in Forensic Science: A Unique Tool for Criminal Identification
This article focuses on the importance of ear prints in forensic science and how it has proved to be an invaluable tool in criminal investigation over time. Ear print analysis is an emerging forensic technique for criminal identification, leveraging unique two-dimensional ear impressions found at crime scenes. Similar to fingerprints, ear prints are distinct biometric identifiers, potentially more resistant to manipulation. Their individuality stems from complex ear morphology, including features like the helix and earlobe. Collected via methods akin to fingerprinting, analysis involves superposition and digital comparison. While useful for suspect identification and height estimation, ear prints face challenges in court admissibility due to reproducibility issues, subjective analysis, and lack of standardized protocols. Ongoing research aims to enhance their reliability and acceptance as a valuable corroborative tool in forensic investigations, necessitating further validation for broader legal use.
Gender-Based Variations in Crime: Case Studies and Data Analy
This study examines gender differences in crime, a long-standing area of interest within sociology, criminology, psychology, and law. Consistent global patterns reveal that men commit more crimes, particularly violent offenses, than women, though gender also shapes victimization experiences and justice system responses. By analysing statistical trends, types of crimes associated with each gender, and the underlying social, cultural, and biological factors, this research highlights the complex interplay influencing criminal behaviour.In addition to addressing problems of traditional criminological theories, this research critically reviews important theoretical frameworks that explain gender variations in criminal behaviour. It investigates how gender norms or gender stereotypes, cultural expectations, and institutional practices shape outcomes within the justice system. Learning more about these elements is crucial for crafting effective crime prevention strategies, implementing gender-sensitive policies, and ensuring fair treatment across the criminal justice process. Ultimately, the study adds to broader conversations about social justice, gender equity, and the creation of more inclusive and just societies. The findings underscore the persistent gender gap in criminal behavior, shaped by complex social, cultural, and structural factors, and highlight the need for gender-responsive policies to promote fairness and equity within the justice system.
A Socioeconomic Triad: Exploring Unemployment, The Gini Index, and Crime in India (2015–2022)
This study explores the intricate interrelationship between unemployment, Gini coefficient, and crime in post-reform India from 2015 to 2022. Positioned within the broader framework of socio-economic development and public policy, this study investigates the extent to which structural economic indicators influence criminal activity across states and over time. Utilizing a robust empirical framework, the research draws on diverse and authoritative data sources: unemployment data for 2015–2017 is extracted from the Labour Bureau’s Employment Unemployment Surveys (EUS), while later years rely on periodic national statistics; income inequality data (Gini coefficient) is derived from the SBI Research Reports and the Press Information Bureau; crime statistics are sourced from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), under the Ministry of Home Affairs. By quantifying the relationship between the crime rate per lakh population and key economic indicators, this study aims to validate or challenge existing theoretical models that posit economic distress as a driver of criminal behaviour. Through regression analysis and trend examination, the findings intend to offer explain insights into how unemployment and inequality independently and collectively affect crime patterns. The research ultimately contributes to policy discourse on employment generation, equitable growth, and crime prevention strategies in contemporary India.
Applications of Nanotechnology in Forensic Science: A Comprehensive Review
Nanotechnology is reshaping forensic science with new techniques that are faster, more sensitive, and more precise. This review highlights how the increasing use of nanomaterials in forensic investigations improves the detection, collection, and analysis of evidence. Nanoparticles like gold, silver, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide have improved latent fingerprint visualization, showing clearer ridge detail even on difficult surfaces. The increasing use of nanotechnology in forensic investigations is promising and could soon be the tipping point in the discipline. Applications mainly have been related to evidence identification and analysis, such as single-crystalline semiconductor CdS nano slabs for explosives detection, functionalized TiO2 nanorods for organophosphorus chemical warfare agents in Forensic Chemistry, the use of Nanopowders for latent print visualization in and gold nanoparticle protein nanopore for detection of single-stranded DNA in Forensic biology. In recent years, nanotechnology has also been used to identify illegal drugs. Due to the restricted tools available for evidence analysis, these and other applications of nanotechnology offer sensitive and selective techniques for identifying evidence, as well as quick and accurate results with fewer procedures. Nanotechnology is also being used in document authentication, postmortem interval estimation and microbial forensics. But there are challenges to overcome, standardization, cost-effectiveness and environmental impact. This review brings together findings from recent studies to provide a comprehensive overview of how nanotechnology is revolutionizing forensic science and outlines the steps needed to further integrate these tools into routine forensic practice.
Forensic Science, Nanotechnology, Fingerprint, DNA analysis, GSR, Drugs, Toxicology, Questioned document, Nanoparticles.
Overview of Fingerprint-Based Blood-Grouping using Various Tools and Techniques
Blood grouping plays a crucial role in medical diagnostics, transfusion practices, and forensic investigations. Traditional methods for determining blood groups involve serological testing of blood samples, which, while accurate, require invasive procedures, trained personnel, and time. Researchers have recently explored non-invasive alternatives, among which biometric approaches such as fingerprint analysis have gained attention. The emerging field of fingerprint-based blood grouping presents a revolutionary, non-invasive alternative by leveraging the unique biochemical composition of fingerprint residues and the distinct patterns of epidermal ridges. This approach offers significant value by enabling rapid, cost-effective, and hygienic blood type determination, with profound benefits for enhancing emergency response efficiency, streamlining donor registration in blood banks, and advancing forensic investigations. The purpose of this comprehensive review is to synthesize current research and provide a detailed overview of the methodologies underpinning this technology. We examine the scientific basis for the correlation between fingerprint patterns and ABO/Rh blood groups, evaluate traditional chemical and spectroscopic techniques, and analyze the cutting-edge integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning models for automated classification. Furthermore, the review discusses the practical applications, advantages, and current limitations of the technology, concluding with an outlook on future directions for research and implementation. This paper underscores the transformative potential of fingerprint-based blood grouping as a viable and promising solution for modern medical and forensic challenges. However, further research with larger and more genetically diverse populations is required to validate and refine the predictive models. In conclusion, while fingerprint-based blood grouping cannot yet replace conventional methods, it offers a compelling supplementary tool for rapid, non-invasive blood group estimation.
Biometric Blood Typing, Deep Learning and Machine Learning, AI-based Pattern Recognition, Predictive Healthcare Technology, Genetic-Biometric Correlation
Socio-Demographic Profile and Gross Findings in Hanging and Strangulation Victims: An Autopsy based Study
Introduction:Hanging and strangulation are forms of violent asphyxial death and are commonly encountered in day-to-day autopsy. The need to differentiate between the two is extremely crucial especially in cases of suspicious deaths. Thorough examination of the external and internal findings including ligature mark helps to establish the crucial facts in such cases. Methodology:The present observational study was carried out on 100 autopsy cases of hanging and strangulation, in the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, G.G.S Medical College& Hospital, Faridkot, Punjab during a period from April,2021 to October, 2022 Results:A total of 100 cases of hanging and strangulation were studied. Males accounted for majority of cases of hanging while females accounted for majority of cases of strangulation. Various other factors like age distribution, ligature material used, nail marks, parchmentization, tongue bite were studied. Data was statically analysed. Conclusion:A meticulous forensic examination in hanging and strangulation is of great importance to differentiate between them. This study highlights that the ligature mark needs to be evaluated and correlated along with external findings, internal findings and histopathological findings of neck structures.
Hanging, Ligature mark, Strangulation, Antemortem, Postmortem
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has given rise to a new technology called Deepfake. Deepfake Technology (DT) involves replacing one person's face with that of another in digital content, often for malicious purposes. The most prominent model that operates behind Deepfake is the Generative Adversarial Network (GAN), which operates autonomously. It creates convincingly forged content from a variety of inputs. DT raises significant concerns among legal experts and scholars and has become a worldwide phenomenon due to its easy accessibility and wide availability. The impact of DT can be seen in areas such as politics, journalism, and the legal system. Although DT has potential positive uses as well as negative ones, the detrimental consequences tend to overshadow the benefits. The rapid global spread of DT underscores the urgent need for effective detection methods. Several techniques, such as Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), MesoNet, face detection, and multimedia forensics, are discussed here. This paper provides a brief overview of Deepfake technology, its developing field, the associated threats, and the methods used for detection. Deepfake encompasses a broad range of applications, which are also covered here. It can offer creative advantages while simultaneously posing significant risks. The technology for detection is advancing quickly in tandem with improvements in Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The primary emphasis of this paper is on examining the different techniques available for detecting this emerging field.
Artificial Intelligence, Deepfake, Media manipulation, Generative Neural Network, Convolutional Neural Networks, deep learning.
A Retrospective Study on The Pattern of Injuries Encountered in Railway-Related Deaths Brought for Autopsy at a Tertiary Care Hospital.
Introduction: India has the largest network of railways, providing the basic mode of transportation for passengers and freight. Railway-related deaths are either accidental or suicidal, and we may also encounter homicidal deaths by using railway tracks to mask them. Railway-related deaths are rising due to various factors, viz., unmanned level crossings, lack of safety precautions during entraining or detraining, poor infrastructure, and poor safety measures. This study was conducted to determine the manner of death and the various patterns of injuries encountered in fatal railway-related deaths. Material and methodology: All the cases of fatal railway-related deaths brought for the autopsy to our mortuary from January 2023 to December 2024 were considered for the study. The data was collected from the Inquest report, postmortem report, relatives of the deceased, and police regarding the circumstances of death. The data was analysed systematically. Results: A total of 99 cases were observed during the study period. Maximum fatalities (37.4%) were reported among the age group of 31-40 years. Majority of the deceased were male (99%); among them, 74 (74.8%) were known individuals and 25 (25.2%) were unknown. The maximum number of deaths observed was from 12 pm to 6 pm (33.3%), followed by 6 pm to 12 am (28.3%). Most of the deaths were accidental (72.7%) and in 16.2% of cases, the manner of death cannot be ascertained. The majority of accidental deaths were due to trespassing (65.3%). Injuries to the head were observed in most of the cases (56.1%). Among the 99 cases, Shock and Hemorrhage was the most observed cause of death (35.4%), followed by Head injury (26.3%).
Railway-related deaths, Accidental, Trespassing, Shock and Hemorrhage.
Copyright (c) 2025 Abhishek Chaudhary, Naresh Zanjad, Vinod Rathod https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Multi-allelic Patterns Observed at Y-STR Loci: A Case Report
The forensic relevance of Y-STR analysis is well understood and widely documented. In this report, the authors have described twounusual multi-allelic patterns in Y-STR profiles of individualsobserved during forensic examination.The first is a case of a bi-allelic pattern at the locus DYS391observed in a father/son duo in a paternity dispute. The second case is of a tri-allelic pattern at the locus DYF387S1a/b observed in the Y-STR profile of a suspected perpetrator in a case of sexual assault.In both cases, the individuals belong to theHimalayan stateof Sikkim in Northeast India, and this is the first report of such abnormal Y-STR patterns observed in this population. Probable causes for these multi-allelic patterns and the relevance of these findingsfor forensic DNA analysis have been discussed
Y-STR analysis, Multi-allelic patterns, Y-STRduplication, Y-STR profile,Forensic examination, Forensic DNA Analysis.
Body’s Testimony: Injury Patterns in Sexual Assault Survivors of South-Central Mumbai
According to UNICEF, globally, an estimated 650 million girls and women, or approximately 1 in 5, have been subjected to sexual violence during their childhood1. Both the physical healing and the legal pursuit of justice for survivors of sexual violence depend on the timely treatment and comprehensive documenting of extra-genital and genital injuries.This prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care facility in central- southern Mumbai from January 2016 to June 2017. A total of 160 survivors of alleged sexual assault, fulfilling inclusion criteria, were included in the study. The main aim of the study was toobserve the Injury patterns on survivors of alleged sexual assault presenting to the tertiary care facility, with a specific focus onextra-genital and genital trauma. In the study, we observed, majority of sexual assaults involved peno-vaginal penetration (84.37%), with genital injuries being the most common (69.38%). Hymenal tears at the 7 o’clock position was frequently observed (7.5%), often in conjunction with older tears (60.40%). Anal injuries were rare (6.25%). A significant proportion of survivors presented late for examination (25.62%).
Sexual assault, Genital Injury, Forensic examination, Injury patterns.
Study of Pattern of Ligature Mark in Hanging Cases in Ahmedabad Region
As a painless form of death hanging is the commonest method of committing suicide. A proper observation and study of ligature mark is characteristic hallmark of hanging. The ligature mark is a pressure abrasion on the neck at the site of the ligature which appearsas a groove. This prospective study was conducted among victims of hanging brought to GMERS Medical College Sola, Ahmedabad during the period July 2018 to June 2022.214 cas-es brought with a history of hanging out of total 2054 autopsy cases were selected for this prospective study. A typicalligature marks with partial hanging outnumbered typical ligature mark with complete hanging. Ligature mark was obliquely placed above the level of thyroid cartilage with a breadth of 1to2cm is observed in the max-imumnumber of cases. The colour of ligature mark was dark brown in one third of cases. Young adults of the age group 21 to 30 years accounted for the maximum cases 41.12% and the male: female ratio was 2:1.Chunni (3%) was the most common ligature material used.
Hanging, Ligature mark, Suicide, Thyroid cartilage
Silent Scorcher: A Case of Heat Stroke Fatality-Case Report
Background: Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition resulting from prolonged exposure to high temperatures, often exacerbated by physical exertion and inadequate hydration. Despite being preventable, it can lead to fatal outcomes if not promptly identified and treated. This case study highlights a fatal instance of heat stroke to emphasize its clinical manifestations, risk factors, and forensic importance. Case Presentation: A 65-year-old male was found unresponsive after prolonged outdoor activity in extreme heat. Initial assessment revealed hyperthermia, altered mental status, and multi-organ dysfunction. Despite aggressive cooling measures and critical care interventions, the patient succumbed to complications arising from heatstroke, including rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury. The autopsy confirmed findings consistent with severe hyperthermia-induced organ damage. Discussion: This case underscores the importance of early recognition and immediate management of heat stroke. Key contributing factors, such as environmental conditions, individual susceptibility, and delayed medical attention, are explored. The study also highlights the need for public awareness, preventive strategies, timely interventions to reduce the incidence of heat-related fatalities and diagnostic aspects in forensic. Conclusion: Heat stroke remains a silent yet significant public health concern, particularly in regions experiencing rising temperatures. This case serves as a critical reminder of the deadly consequences of heat exposure and the urgent need for preventive action and how to diagnose such a case.
Heat stroke, hyperthermia, rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney injury.
Impact of Effective Communication and Empathy Skills Awareness Training for Non-Judicial Officers
Background: Working life constitutes a significant aspect of adulthood. Non-judicial officers in courthouses frequently encounter vulnerable groups, leading to potential issues such as crises, anger outbursts, and communication breakdowns. Given this context, enhancing empathic self-efficacy skills among these officers is essential to help mitigate potential challenges. Objectives: For this purpose, our study examined the impact of awareness training to improve the effective communication and empathy skills of non-judicial officer working in a courthouse in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Material and Methods:The &quot;Perceived Empathic Self-Efficacy and Social Self-Efficacy Scale&quot; was performed to the participants before and after the awareness training. Results:Among the 302 non-judicial officers in the study, 55.6% were male and 44.4% female. Service duration showed that 25.8% had 1-5 years of experience, while 24.5% had 16 or more years. Analysis of daily communication with defendants revealed that 25.5% interacted for less than one hour per day. A statistically significant difference was observed in empathic self- efficacy mean scores pre- and post-training, following the educational program for non-judicial officers (p=0.014). Conclusion: As a result, it is thought that providing therapeutic jurisprudence awareness trainings to non-judicial officers to improve their effective communication and empathy skills is important in the face of increasing workload.
Non-judicial officer; Perceived Empathic Self-Efficacy; Social Self-Efficacy; Awareness Training.
Predictive Body Height Model Based on Proximal Phalanx II Using X-Ray in Bataknese People
Background: Natural disasters or criminal acts that cause victims to die, in some cases the bodies of the victims can no longer be recognized because there has been severe damage such as only finding a few pieces of the body. Forensic identification of dead people or unidentified bodies, bodies in a state of damage due to rotting, burning, bomb explosions, land, sea and plane traffic accidents, tsunamis, earthquakes are very important and vital for further investigation. Methods:This is a correlation analysis study on phalanx bone length and body height. A cross sectional study is conducted where data is collected only one time and in a specific time span. This study aims to correlate body height and proximal phalanx II bone in Bataknese people. Conclusion: Based on the results, it is concluded that the TB, FP2R, and FP2L data are normally distributed, p-value & lt;0,05 (p = 0,001). There is a correlation (Sig FP2R = 0.200 (p &gt;0,05), with an intermediate correlation level between the right (r = 0,353) and left (r = 0,400) phalanx bone length in men and the right (r = 0,464) and left (r = 0,479) phalanx bone length in women of Bataknese people. It is concluded that proximal phalanx II has a correlation with body height with an intermediate correlation level (r = 0,353- 0,479), so proximal phalanx II is the best predictor for body height.
body height, phalanx proximal II length.
Survivor-Accused Dynamics in Alleged Sexual Assault Cases: A Demographic Analysis
Sexual assault is a type of gender-based violence. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines gender-based violence (GBV) as any harmful act that is committed against a person's will and is based on gender roles and power differences between males and females. Role of a health care provider is very crucial in the sense of Identifying, documenting and reporting such instances. This prospective observational study was carried out in the department of Forensic medicine and toxicology of a Tertiary care center in a metropolitan city of Mumbai from January 2016 to June 2017.The main aim was to observe the demographic and relational dynamics between survivors and accused individuals in alleged sexual assault cases brought for examination. All cases that fulfilled the inclusion criteria during the study period are considered for the study, which included 160 cases. In the study 93% of survivors were females and in that 73.25% were under the age of 18 years. Majority were students, graduates of Secondary School, from urban background and unmarried. An attempt to understand survivor-accused dynamics revealed the majority of accused were known to the survivors (31.25%), and a single assailant is involved (96.88%). Other contextual findings were obtained which provided more insight into the circumstances of assaults.
Sexual assault, Gender based violence, Forensic examination, POCSO act.
Public Awareness and Perceptions of Medicolegal Autopsies in Kerala
BACKGROUND: Death is often met with fear, rooted in the unknown, and many cultures maintain beliefs in life after death, souls, and ghosts. These beliefs shape rituals to honor the departed. However, unnatural deaths requiring autopsies can intensify challenges, especially in superstition-heavy societies. Even in Kerala, with its 100% literacy rate, such beliefs persist. This study examines public awareness, perceptions, and attitudes toward medicolegal autopsies, exploring how education, superstition, and medical practices intersect in shaping societal responses. AIM: To study the general public’s awareness in Kerala regarding various aspects of medicolegal autopsies, including the purpose, process, legal implications, and societal perceptions of such investigations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted using face to face interviews and questionnaire that was carefully prepared and distributed randomly among the general public across different regions of Kerala. The responses from study population, were collected for analysis. The responses were thoroughly examined, and conclusions were drawn based on the data gathered, providing insights into the public&#39;s awareness and perceptions of medicolegal autopsies in the state. RESULTS: The study conducted in Kerala revealed that most laypeople were aware of medicolegal autopsies, with 92% demonstrating a good understanding. However, 6% partially accepted the procedure’s feasibility, 1.25% opposed it due to personal or cultural beliefs, and 0.75% were unfamiliar with the concept. Among those opposing autopsies, 27% cited religious reasons, 18% feared disfigurement, and 3% considered it ethically wrong. While basic awareness exists, comprehensive knowledge about the purpose, legal implications, procedures, and significance of medicolegal autopsies is limited. Misconceptions or incomplete information about when and why autopsies are conducted were common. The findings highlight the need for educational initiatives to enhance public understanding of the vital role of medicolegal autopsies in forensic and legal contexts. CONCLUSION: The study highlights strong support for autopsies but reveals significant public knowledge gaps. Addressing misconceptions through education and collaboration can improve understanding and acceptance, promoting informed consent for medical and legal purposes.
awareness, autopsy, public opinion, healthcare system, attitude
A General Overview on the Medico Legal Provisions of Bharathiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023
The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023 brought about very extensive alteration in the criminal justice system of India because it aims at overhauling the Indian Penal Code of 1860. This review article analyzes the new code from the medico-legal perspective, focusing on the provisions that might be of interest to medical and legal professionals. Specific parts of the act regarding consent, injury, criminal responsibility, medical negligence, sexual offenses, and other important areas are discussed in order to understand legislative purpose and real-life implications. Analyzing these provisions the article exposes how strategies of the healthcare delivery are interrelated with legal obligations, patients’ entitlements, professionalism, and the quest for justice in practice. Specifically, the goal of this review is to help practitioners, legal scholars, and policymakers as well as physicians be more aware and thus more cautious in the new legal environment that has emerged.
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Medico Legal Provisions, Indian Penal Code
Summary and Reflection on the Introductory Implementation of Attitude, Ethics and Communication Skills (AETCOM) Module
AETCOM (Attitude, Ethics and Communication Skills) Module implementation was a new event in the curriculum. As per the Curriculum based medical education more importance was given to the attitude component which was a new development. The first batch of students in this curriculum started in 2019. The batch also had delay in their course due to the Covid pandemic. Despite many challenges it was possible to implement the module. Here we are detailing the process of implementation of the module in our institution and describing our experience with the first batch of 2 students. This aims to provide a data base to build upon and further improve the future sessions in AETCOM.
Attitude, Ethics and Communication Skills, Implementation, Competency Based Medical Education
A Typical Non-ballistic Penetrating Missile Injury in an Industrial Setup: Rare Case Reports
Non-ballistic fatal penetrating missileinjuries are rare occurrences in an industrial setup. We present two cases wherein industrial workers sustained fatal penetrating injuries while working in a steel sheet pressing factory. In the first case,a metallic piece detached from a steel sheet penetrated the chest cavity. Similarly, in the second case,a detached steel piece penetratedthe left side back of the abdomen. Both the cases were brought to PGIMER, Chandigarh, a tertiary care institute for specialized care, but succumbed to their injuries. Since the injuries on the chest and abdomen were penetrating wounds which raised suspicion of foul play among relatives, both the cases were subjected to forensic autopsy. It was concluded that in both cases, the cause of death was haemorrhagic shock due to accidental penetrating injury by a detached metal piece at the workplace.Authors observed that such bizarre injuries would be easily preventable if torso armourhad been made mandatory by the authorities for the workers in such factories.
Penetrating wound, industrial injury, non-ballistic missiles, steel piece, autopsy.
Autopsy Based Findings in Fatal Blast Cases: A Case Series
Blast incidents resulting trauma and deaths are serious health issues. Blast incidents could be either accidental in a military or industrial setup or homicidal as an act of terror. Suicidal blast incidents are uncommon. This article briefly reviews the various types of injuries examined medicolegally by the authors in deceased in blasts cases, to know the various causes of death noted in different autopsies and the factors on which the fatal injuries sustained depends. The different varieties of burns like flame burns, scalds, charring and other associated injuries due to blast like lacerations of skin and muscles due to direct trauma, lacerations of viscera and rupture of hollow viscera due to blast waves etc. may be seen in person as per nature of blast. In present case series, authors observed the injuries over the bodies and other findings were consistent with the alleged history of incidences. However, other factors like scene of crime, type, pattern and distribution of injuries over the body, conditions of the clothings, if available etc are helpful in deciding the cause and manner of death. Determination of the manner of death in blast cases is chiefly the task of investigating agencies and the role of forensic pathologist is contributory. However, a forensic pathologist may play a crucial role in deciding the manner of infliction of injuries or death and helps the investing agency and Hon’ble Courts in deciding the case and delivery of justice to victims of blast cases by visiting the scene of incidence, pursing the types, patterns and distribution of injuries over the victim of blast and considering the inquest report.
Blast, Burns, Injuries, Haemorrhagic Shock, Neurogenic Shock, Crime scene.