Interpretation Of Various Medico-Legal Aspects Of Gunshot Injuries: A Compilation Of Autopsy Findings Performed At Darbhanga Medical College & Hospital, Bihar

Abstract

India’s rates of violence vary greatly from state to state, and city to city, ranging from relatively high to negligible. India officially reported total national firearm murder cases 2818 (9.8%) out of 34305 homicidal deaths. Percentage wise it is nearly equal for year 2012 (10.98%) and for 2013 (10.90%). Present study was done with objectives of studying the epidemiological patterns of firearms deaths and wound characteristics over the victim body. Methodology: This study includes all firearm fatality cases, presented to the mortuary of the Darbhanga Medical College & Hospital, Darbhanga, Bihar for autopsy, over the period of two year that was from July 2018 to May 2020. Ethical approval for this study was taken with due procedure from the college ethical committee. Results: Over the period of observation and data collection, total 39 deceased with suspected firearm deaths were brought for autopsy examination. On autopsy following findings were noted down. Out of 39 victims, majority were from 3rd decade of life and 38 were males. Only one female died because of firearm and she as in the 4th decade of her life. In 30 homicidal cases, probable motive behind the death was personal rivalry in 22 of the cases, 2 had political background and cause behind the rest 6 cases was unknown. Conclusion: Increase in suicidal pattern in police officials by using firearm weapon is major concern and proper psychological evaluation with mental support will definitely reduce this mortality.