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British Families Halt Funerals Over Air India Repatriation Errors

A forensic DNA audit in West London uncovered misidentifications alongside mixed remains, prompting families to seek answers from Air India’s repatriation contractor.

Horror tras el accidente de Air India: las familias británicas recibieron cuerpos equivocados. Foto: AP
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Reciben restos equivocados familiares de pasajeros del Air India

Overview

  • London’s chief forensic officer Dr. Fiona Wilcox used DNA comparisons to identify multiple labelling errors, including coffins containing remains from more than one individual.
  • Bereaved relatives of 52 British victims have suspended planned funerals until formal explanations are provided.
  • Lawyer James Healy-Pratt has filed formal inquiries with Air India and Kenyon International Emergency Services over the flawed repatriation process.
  • Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal defended the handling of remains, stating that all protocols were followed and cooperation with UK authorities continues.
  • The June 12 crash of flight AI171 killed 241 people aboard and 19 on the ground and has left families grappling with additional distress more than six weeks later.