Post-mortem examinations, more commonly referred to as autopsies, play a vital role in criminal investigations by providing valuable insights into the circumstances surrounding a person's death. The significance of post-mortems in criminal investigations cannot be overstated, as they serve multiple critical purposes, each contributing significantly to the pursuit of justice and the search for truth.

First and foremost, post-mortem examinations offer crucial medical and forensic information regarding the cause and manner of death. Establishing the cause of death is essential in criminal investigations as it helps determine whether foul play was involved and identifies the specific injuries or circumstances that led to the victim's demise. Whether the death was a result of trauma, poisoning, disease, or other causes, the post-mortem helps unravel the medical intricacies and ensures accurate documentation of findings.

Furthermore, post-mortems aid in the collection of forensic evidence that is crucial for identifying suspects and building a strong case against them. By examining the body and analysing tissue samples, fluids, and other biological materials, traces of DNA, toxins, drugs, or other substances relevant to the investigation can be revealed. These findings not only corroborate witness testimonies and circumstantial evidence but also provide concrete scientific evidence that can withstand scrutiny in court.

Post-mortem investigations are essential in establishing a timeline leading to the death of a victim. By documenting injuries, their severity, and the progression of post-mortem physiological changes, forensic pathologists can reconstruct the sequence of events, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding the crime. This analysis assists investigators in piecing together the crime's narrative, identifying potential witnesses or suspects, and verifying or discrediting alibis and accounts of the incident.

Moreover, post-mortems aid in identifying victims, particularly in cases of unidentified or decomposed remains. Through forensic examination of dental records, fingerprints, DNA, and other characteristics, forensic experts can determine the victim's identity, allowing for notification of next of kin, closure for families, and further progress in the investigation.

Aside from its evidentiary significance, the post-mortem process serves a crucial role in promoting justice and accountability. By providing an unbiased and systematic examination of the deceased, post-mortem investigations ensure transparency, objectivity, and accountability in the investigative process. Whether conducted by forensic pathologists employed by law enforcement agencies or independent medical examiners, post-mortems uphold the integrity of the criminal justice system and safeguard against wrongful convictions or miscarriages of justice.

Furthermore, post-mortem examinations play a crucial role in the progression of forensic science and medical understanding, promoting ongoing research, education, and training within the field. By analysing case studies, identifying trends and patterns, and performing post-mortem examinations, forensic pathologists constantly refine their diagnostic methods, improve their understanding of human physiology, and develop innovative techniques for investigating deaths and solving crimes.

In summary, the significance of post-mortem examinations in criminal investigations cannot be overstated. They not only determine the cause and manner of death, but also collect crucial forensic evidence, establish timelines, identify victims, uphold justice, and advance scientific knowledge. As an essential aspect of forensic science, post-mortem examinations continue to play a pivotal role in unravelling the enigmas surrounding deaths and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.

Evaluation of Postmortem Report in Courts:

In cases of crime, postmortem reports are often seen by courts as important sources of information in establishing how death occurred. Forensic pathologists/Autopsy surgeons perform postmortem exams that produce evidence of injuries, help gather biological material, and deliver professional opinions on the matter. The reports presented in a courtroom are seriously scrutinized by judges, prosecutors, defence attorneys, and expert witnesses.

Credibility and reliability of postmortem reports are determined by the court based on a number of factors such as the forensic pathologist's qualifications, adherence to set protocols and standards, the examination's meticulousness, and the harmonization of other forensic evidence and witness testimonies. Any inconsistencies, disparities, or errors found in the report can be used for cross-examination and contested during the trial stage.

Moreover, in addition to the postmortem report, courts also take into account other evidence such as witness testimonies, forensic analysis, and circumstantial evidence to come up with a just verdict that is fair. At the end of it all, the role and impact that can be derived from the postmortem report is based on its level of accuracy, reliability, and connection to the issue in contention, which shall be decided by the court.

Written By: Md.Imran Wahab, IPS, IGP, Provisioning, West Bengal
Email: [email protected], Ph no: 9836576565