Air India Crash: UK Families Receive Wrong Bodies, Claims Lawyer

In a disturbing revelation following the tragic crash of Air India flight AI171 on June 12, a lawyer representing victims' families in the United Kingdom has alleged that at least two families received the wrong remains of their loved ones. The Gatwick-bound flight had crashed in Ahmedabad, killing all 241 passengers on board, including 53 British nationals.

The mix-up came to light when Inner West London coroner Dr. Fiona Wilcox attempted to verify the identities of the repatriated British victims by matching their DNA with samples provided by their families, according to the Daily Mail

In a second case, another family reportedly received a coffin containing the remains of two different passengers. "The remains had to be separated before the family could proceed with the funeral. One family was left with no one to bury after realising they had been sent the wrong body," the lawyer added.

India Responds to Air India Crash Remains Controversy

India has responded to UK media reports alleging that the wrong remains of Air India crash victims were sent to families in the UK. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India has been in close contact with UK authorities and confirmed that identification was done following established protocols. He added that all remains were handled with professionalism and dignity, and efforts are ongoing to address any concerns raised by the UK side.

12 British Victims Repatriated, Others Buried in India

According to The Daily Mail, while several British nationals were cremated or buried in India in accordance with religious customs, the remains of at least 12 were repatriated to the UK. Aviation lawyer James Healy-Pratt, who is representing many of the affected families, confirmed that he is helping them seek answers and pursue legal compensation for the mishandling.

"The goal is to uncover the complete truth and ensure justice for the families," Healy-Pratt told the publication, while confirming that legal proceedings are underway.

The incident has sparked fresh scrutiny over the protocols followed in handling disaster victims' remains, particularly in cases where DNA testing is the only means of identification due to extensive burns or trauma.