Odisha train tragedy: With multiple claimants for bodies, state govt begins DNA sampling

A DNA testing centre has also been opened at AIIMS on Monday where samples of over 20 people have already been collected.

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The Odisha government, meanwhile, revised the final death toll in the train accident to 288 from 275. (Express Photo)

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With relatives of the Odisha train tragedy victims visiting different hospitals to look for the bodies of their loved ones and amid multiple claims for a single body, the government has started collecting DNA sample of the visitors.

“Wherever there is confusion over identity of the body, we will take a decision only after conducting the DNA test. There were a few cases where we came to know about multiple claimants for a single body,” said Bhubaneswar Municipal Commissioner Vijay Amrut Kulange.

Also Read | Odisha train crash: What if it had been a plane or a premium train like Rajdhani?

A DNA testing centre has also been opened at AIIMS on Monday where samples of over 20 people have already been collected. The Odisha government, meanwhile, revised the final death toll in the train accident to 288 from 275.

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“According to the final report submitted by the Balasore district collector, 193 bodies were sent to Bhubaneswar. In Balasore, 94 bodies were identified and handed over to their families while one body was handed over in Bhadrak,” said Chief Secretary P K Jena.

Also Read | Odisha rail accident: AIIMS-Bhubaneswar calls in embalming experts; kin to get help until last rites

Of 193 bodies brought to Bhubaneswar, 110 have already been identified and handed over to their families.

“We are also conducting DNA tests. If a person will come to claim a body at a later stage, we will match the DNA and take a decision accordingly,” said Jena.

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