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Jharkhand HC orders DNA testing at AIIMS Deoghar as skeleton controversy deepens
On May 4, 2026, the Jharkhand High Court directed DNA testing on the missing girl's parents to be conducted at AIIMS Deoghar on May 6, amid scrutiny over a recovered skeleton police claim to be the victim's. The court criticised procedural delays since an April 17 order and scheduled a May 14 hearing to review the DNA results, with a sealed post-mortem report pending in Ranchi. The case has seen family skepticism, police accountability questions, and ongoing investigations.
Why It Matters
The ruling underscores concerns about police handling and accountability in a high-profile missing-person case and highlights the role of DNA evidence in resolving the victim's identity and potential culpability.
Timeline
7 Events
Bench reconvenes to review DNA report
May 4, 2026
The bench will reconvene on May 14 to review the DNA report and confirm the identity of the remains.
DNA samples from parents ordered to be collected at AIIMS Deoghar
May 4, 2026
The High Court directed that DNA samples from the victim's parents be collected on May 6 at AIIMS Deoghar.
DNA testing order issued
April 17, 2026
The High Court issued a prior order directing DNA testing in the case.
Skeleton recovered behind Chas College
April 2026
Bokaro police recovered skeletal remains behind Chas College following a confession by accused Dinesh Kumar Mahto; the family disputes the police's claims.
FIR registered after 10-day delay
July 31, 2025
An FIR in Pushpa Kumari Mahto's disappearance was registered after a 10-day delay.
Missing report filed
July 21, 2025
Rekha Devi reported her daughter Pushpa Kumari Mahto missing in Bokaro.
Habeas corpus petition prompts intervention
July 2025
A habeas corpus petition forced judicial intervention in the investigation.