Rajiv case forensic expert passes away

He was the former Director of the Department of Forensic Sciences, Government of Tamil Nadu. The scientist had formulated the superimposition technique, identification through skull sutures and lip forensics and was instrumental in solving the Rajiv Gandhi’s Assassination case within a few hours of its occurrence. As DNA was very costly, the concept of superimposition helped as it was a much cheaper method. 

“He was the driving force behind scientific breakthroughs in investigations, before which, it was basically a routine. There were no computer graphics and all then. He used to identify and explain how accused persons could have acted based on the photographs and videos he saw of them. He used to give detailed lessons to students to help them develop their own skills,” said a former colleague.

Chandra Sekharan was the author of many books including, “The First Human Bomb” based on the Rajiv Gandhi’s case, and numerous scientific publications.  He is survived by his wife, daughter and grandsons.