Examination protocol of dismembered bodies in railway track: A suggestive review in the Indian railways backdrop

Abstract

Railway-related fatalities often involve dismembered bodies, which pose unique forensic challenges. There is the need for standardized examination procedures, especially in India, where about 30% of bodies in railway track are unidentified. Distinguishing accidental trauma from criminal dismemberment requires sophisticated forensic expertise. The protocol emphasizes a systematic approach, including scene investigation, body part documentation, and post-mortem examination. Key aspects include proper handling of multiple body parts, assessment of postmortem intervals, and precise injury documentation. Ancillary investigations, such as radiological examination including PMCT and Micro CT, histological sampling, object or tool mark analysis and entomological analysis are to be used to meet the secondary objectives of autopsy. The review aims to standardize investigation procedures, improve forensic reporting accuracy, and enhance the quality of railway-related death investigations.