In the ongoing investigation of the Delhi blast, DNA samples from Dr. Umar Nabi's mother and brother have been collected and sent to the forensic laboratory at AIIMS for further analysis. These samples will be compared with the remains of bodies stored at Lok Nayak Hospital in Delhi. Dr. Sudhir Gupta, head of forensic medicine at AIIMS Delhi, explained that DNA profiling is utilized to match biological samples by analyzing specific segments of an individual's DNA for human identification.

DNA profiling is regarded as a powerful tool in forensic science for identifying suspects or victims and establishing biological relationships. It serves as a gold standard in forensic investigations, aiding in criminal inquiries, identifying disaster victims, and conducting paternity tests.

Dr. Gupta elaborated that DNA samples can be collected from various sources such as blood, hair, or skin cells. The DNA is extracted from these samples, and specific regions are replicated using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology. This process focuses on Short Tandem Repeat (STR) regions of DNA, which are short sequences of DNA bases that vary in number among individuals. The number of repeats at different STR locations is determined, creating a unique DNA profile, essentially a genetic fingerprint. This profile is then compared with another known DNA profile to establish paternity or maternity.

Dr. Gupta also noted that DNA profiling can be instrumental in identifying disaster victims, allowing for the identification of bodies from large-scale casualties, such as those resulting from earthquakes or tsunamis, by comparing the DNA of remains with samples from family members.

Previously, the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) had collected DNA samples from Dr. Umar Nabi's mother. Dr. Nabi is alleged to have been driving the I-20 car involved in the explosion near the Red Fort on November 10, which resulted in the deaths of at least eight individuals and left several others injured. Sources revealed this information on Wednesday. According to Delhi police sources, the suspect was also spotted with the I-20 on the Mumbai Expressway and the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) Expressway before heading towards Delhi. Investigative agencies are currently examining the vehicle's activities.