Mumbai: Dixit Solanki’s Father Seeks Fresh DNA Test After Seaman Is Killed in Gulf Drone Strike During West Asia War; Body Kept at Byculla Facility

The mortal remains of seaman Dixit Solanki, believed to be the first Indian casualty in the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, reached Mumbai early on April 5, nearly a month after his death. The arrival brought both grief and unanswered questions for his family. Solanki, aged 33, had lost his life in March when a drone attack struck MT MKD Vyom, the vessel on which he was serving, in the Gulf of Oman. His death had drawn attention due to the circumstances of the incident and the lack of clear communication from concerned authorities regarding the recovery and identification of his remains.

Following the arrival of the remains, Solanki’s father, Amritlal, raised serious concerns and demanded that a second post-mortem examination be conducted. He questioned whether the shipping company had properly verified his son’s identity through DNA testing, especially since the body was severely damaged in the explosion and was not intact. A police officer from Charkop confirmed that the family has not yet proceeded with the final rites. The delay reflects their uncertainty and insistence on official confirmation. The family has also sought written proof that a proper DNA match was established before handing over the remains.

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According to officials from Sahar police station, the remains were transported directly to Mumbai and arrived at around 7 am, without being routed through Delhi. After completing the necessary procedures, authorities handed over the remains to the grieving family. However, due to persistent doubts, the family reportedly moved the remains to a mortuary facility in Byculla. They have continued to press for documentation confirming that a post-mortem examination was conducted by the shipping company and that proper identification procedures, including DNA verification, were followed before the remains were released.

Police stated that Amritlal informed them he had not received any official documents confirming a successful DNA match. Authorities further explained that the body had been recovered in multiple fragments, and an autopsy had already been performed in Oman. If a second post-mortem is to be carried out in Mumbai, legal procedures would require the registration of an accidental death report. Amritlal reportedly argued that since a significant amount of time has passed since his son’s death, another examination is necessary to remove all doubts.

Originally hailing from Ghogla in Diu, the Solanki family currently resides in Kandivali West in Mumbai. The tragic loss has left the family in deep distress, compounded by their concerns over the identification process. Their approach to delaying the final rites until they receive satisfactory answers highlights their demand for transparency and accountability. The case has also raised broader questions about the procedures followed in handling casualties abroad, particularly in conflict zones, and the responsibility of authorities and companies in ensuring clear communication with families during such sensitive situations.