Recently, the ossification test was conducted in connection with the Baba Siddique murder case. Let’s delve into what this test is, why it’s performed, and how it has played a role in this case.
Bada Siddiqui Killed
NCP leader and former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique was murdered, and the Lawrence gang claimed responsibility for the crime. The Mumbai police have been investigating the case and have arrested three suspects so far. Among them, one of the accused, Dharmaraj, was initially claimed to be a minor. However, recent media reports revealed that an ossification test was conducted on Dharmaraj, which confirmed that he is not a minor. Following the test, the police took him into custody.
What is the Ossification Test?
The ossification test is a specialized procedure used to determine the accurate age of an individual based on bone fusion. In simple terms, this test analyzes specific bones, such as the wrist, collarbone, pelvis, and elbow, through X-rays. Images of the bones in the wrist and hands are taken, and based on the growth plates, the individual’s age can be estimated. As certain bones fuse and harden with age, the test can pinpoint how mature the bones are, offering an estimate of the person’s age.
How is the Test Performed?
The ossification test follows a detailed medical process. X-rays are taken of areas such as the chest, collarbone, and pelvis to study the structure of the bones. Based on the bone’s development, the accurate age of the person can be determined. The process is also known as the “epiphyseal fusion test,” which refers to the natural process of bone formation. This test specifically focuses on bones and joints to assess growth patterns, making it crucial in cases involving minors.
The test is important in Legal Cases
The ossification test holds significant importance in cases where there is uncertainty regarding the age of a person, particularly in criminal matters where the individual is claimed to be a minor. Determining whether the accused is a minor or an adult can have major legal implications, influencing the charges and the course of the investigation. In this case, the test helped the police establish that Dharmaraj is an adult, allowing them to proceed with legal actions accordingly.
The ossification test is a crucial tool in forensic science, especially in determining the age of suspects when there is uncertainty about their legal status. Its application in the Baba Siddique murder case has played a key role in shaping the investigation, ensuring that justice is pursued based on accurate information.
