National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Guidelines
Introduction
The NDMA has released the first Standard Operating Procedure for identifying victims in "mass fatality incidents." The guidelines aim to address critical gaps in handling such incidents and provide steps for the recognition, registration, and dignified handover of remains to families.
Key Recommendations
- Creation of a ‘National Dental Data Registry’ for victim identification using dental records.
- Utilization of forensic archaeology for identifying bodies long after a disaster.
Background and Context
The document follows five major tragedies in the previous year, such as the Air India crash in Ahmedabad and chemical explosion in Telangana. Released on Republic Day, it marks 25 years since the Gujarat earthquake of 2001.
Implementation Challenges
- Identification issues due to fragmentation, decomposition, displacement, or charring of bodies.
- Logistical barriers like inadequate mortuary spaces and transport/storage issues.
Guideline Development
NDMA's initiative was influenced by Interpol guidelines and incorporates new forensic specialities. Professor G Rajesh Babu highlighted the humanitarian aspect, emphasizing sensitivity to community customs and providing emotional support.
Process and Stages
- Systematic recovery of remains.
- Collection of post-mortem data.
- Collection of ante-mortem data, such as medical records from families.
- Reconciliation of data for identification and release to families.
Future Steps
The NDMA plans to establish organizational structures nationwide and train experts from forensic fields to create specialized teams in each state.
