GMCH helps ensure swift identification of Raulgaon blast victims

Nagpur: The Govt Medical College and Hospital, Nagpur mounted a swift, systematic, and highly-coordinated medico-legal response to manage the victims of the Raulgaon explosives unit blast, demonstrating scientific rigour and humanitarian sensitivity under extreme circumstances.The institution immediately activated its disaster management protocol under the supervision of dean Dr Raj Gajbhiye. Medical superintendent Dr Avinash Gawande ensured seamless functioning of casualty services, medico-legal registration, and interdepartmental logistics.
Dr Anindya A Mukherjee, professor and head, Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, led the forensic response. Professor Dr Shailendra G Dhawane ensured strict procedural compliance, scientific accuracy, and dignified handling of the deceased.On Sunday, 23 medico-legal cases were registered — the GMCH mortuary received 18 completely charred bodies and five bags containing fragmented human remains. The forensic team conducted meticulous autopsy, collected DNA samples, preserved material for chemical and explosive analysis, and maintained a robust chain of custody. Identification efforts were expedited through immediate coordination with the Forensic Science Laboratory.The autopsy process and ante-mortem data collection were directly overseen by senior resident doctors Dr Nitin JL and Dr Balanagendran J, who played a crucial role in synchronising autopsy findings with DNA reconciliation, enabling timely and accurate identification of victims.Technical and advisory support was provided by associate professor Dr Hrishikesh Pathak, assistant professors Dr Kartade and Dr Dudhe, and senior resident Dr Abhishek Pillae, ensuring operational efficiency throughout the forensic response. Ground-level execution was carried out by a dedicated team of junior residents, whose tireless efforts ensured systematic autopsies, accurate documentation, proper preservation of evidence, and smooth coordination with investigating agencies.The mortuary staff and office personnel supported documentation, cold storage management, and dispatch of forensic samples, while cleaning staff, MSF personnel, security teams, and police authorities ensured crowd control and dignified handling during the entire operation."By the evening of March 2, DNA reports began arriving from the forensic laboratory. Rapid reconciliation of post-mortem and ante-mortem samples led to the successful identification of all previously unidentified victims. The bodies were subsequently handed over to families following due legal procedures, underscoring GMC Nagpur's commitment to professionalism, compassion, and scientific excellence in the face of tragedy," Dr Mukherjee said.Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Holi wishes, messages and quotes !