Lawyer Provides Information
James Healy, the lawyer for the British families, stated that 12-13 bodies were sent to the UK following the crash of Air India flight AI171 in Ahmedabad on 12 June. After DNA analysis, two families were informed that the remains they received were not those of their relatives.
Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson’s Statement
The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, responded to the matter. He stated that the Indian government is working with the British side on this issue. The spokesperson further added that after the accident, officials identified the victims according to protocol and technical requirements.
Civil Hospital Conducted DNA Sampling
It is noteworthy that DNA sampling was conducted at Ahmedabad’s government Civil Hospital. The airline was not involved in the identification process or the handing over of the bodies. The coffins carrying the remains were sent to the UK by Air India Cargo, facilitated by the International Emergency Service Kenyon.
Air India Also Investigating the Matter
Air India stated that it is investigating the matter, but it has not officially confirmed the alleged body mix-up. The Full Story
On 12 June, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operating as flight number AI171 to London took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad at approximately 1:30 pm. Moments later, the plane crashed into the residential campus of BJ Medical College in the Meghaninagar area of the city, resulting in a rapid fire. Only one person survived out of the 242 passengers and crew members on board.
