The aftermath of the Air India Flight AI171 crash in Ahmedabad is marked by scenes of chaos and distress as families grapple with the agonizing process of identifying and claiming the remains of their loved ones. The crash, which occurred shortly after takeoff on Thursday, June 12, 2025, claimed the lives of 241 passengers and crew, along with at least 38 people on the ground, making it one of the deadliest aviation disasters in recent history.

The primary challenge facing authorities is the severely fragmented and charred state of the bodies, rendering visual identification impossible in most cases. This has necessitated the use of DNA testing, a meticulous and time-consuming process that has further exacerbated the anguish of grieving families. Hundreds of relatives have been camping outside Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, providing DNA samples and desperately seeking information about their loved ones.

Reports are emerging of families being presented with bags containing commingled remains, leading to immense emotional distress and accusations of mishandling. One particularly harrowing account involves a family claiming they received a bag containing "two heads," sparking outrage and demands for greater sensitivity and accuracy in the identification process. These claims highlight the urgent need for improved protocols and communication to ensure the dignified handling of remains and prevent further trauma to bereaved families.

The slow pace of identification has fueled frustration and anger, with many relatives accusing authorities of a lack of transparency and empathy. Some family members have voiced their concerns about the lack of information and the difficulties in getting updates from the officials. There have also been complaints about the barricading of the authorities inside, not allowing anyone in and a lack of support from the British High Commission for the British Nationals who were among the deceased.

Despite the challenges, authorities are working to expedite the process, with teams from the State Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) working around the clock to match DNA samples. As of Sunday, June 15, 2025, 42 victims had been identified through DNA testing. The Gujarat government has also deployed grief counselors to provide support to the families, recognizing the immense mental trauma caused by the tragedy.