From June 12th to 13th, 2023, the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, hosted a groundbreaking workshop focused on Forensic Anthropology Basics and Virtual Autopsy. This collaborative effort between AIIMS and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), India, aimed to deepen understanding and expertise in the emerging field of virtual autopsy and its application in forensic investigations.
Led by distinguished experts in the field, including Dr. Sudhir Kumar Gupta, Dr. Derek Congram, Dr. Abhishek Yadav, Dr. Abilash S, and Dr. Karthi R Vighnesh, the workshop offered a comprehensive program comprising lectures and practical exercises spanning two intensive days. Participants were immersed in topics ranging from the fundamentals of virtual autopsy to the intricacies of establishing a biological profile from skeletal remains, including determining sex, age, ancestry, and stature. Additionally, the workshop delved into assessing hard tissue injuries and other characteristics crucial for positive identification in forensic cases.
Dr. Sudhir Kumar Gupta, Professor and Head of the Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology at AIIMS, New Delhi, and Principal Investigator of the Centre of Advanced Research and Excellence in Virtual Autopsy, provided invaluable insights into the advancements and applications of virtual autopsy techniques. His expertise laid the foundation for participants to grasp the potential of this innovative approach in revolutionizing postmortem examinations.
Dr. Derek Congram, a forensic specialist with extensive experience spanning over 20 countries, shared his expertise as a board-certified forensic anthropologist. His contributions to the workshop enriched participants’ understanding of forensic anthropology principles and their practical applications in forensic investigations.
The workshop attracted delegates from esteemed institutions across India, including JIPMER, PGI Chandigarh, AIIMS Bhopal, IIT Gandhi Nagar, AIIMS Rishikesh, and RML Lucknow. Moreover, international delegates from Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives added a global perspective to the discussions, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange on a broader scale.
The success of the workshop can be attributed to the meticulous coordination by Dr. Abhishek Yadav, Dr. Kulbhushan Prasad, Dr. Abilash S, and Dr. Swati Tyagi, who ensured a seamless flow of sessions and facilitated meaningful interactions among participants. Their dedication to organizing such an enriching event underscored AIIMS’ commitment to advancing forensic medicine and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.
As participants departed with newfound insights and skills, the impact of the workshop extended beyond its duration, laying the groundwork for enhanced forensic practices and capabilities nationwide. With virtual autopsies poised to become an integral part of forensic investigations, workshops like these serve as catalysts for innovation and excellence in forensic science, paving the way for a more efficient, accurate, and equitable justice system.
The AIIMS workshop on Forensic Anthropology Basics and Virtual Autopsy was a resounding success, marking a significant milestone in India’s journey towards embracing cutting-edge forensic techniques. Through collaboration, education, and hands-on training, participants emerged better equipped to navigate the complexities of forensic investigations, ultimately contributing to the advancement of justice and the pursuit of truth.
