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By:

Abhijit Mulye

21 August 2024 at 11:29:11 am

The Unequal Cousins

Raj Thackeray’s ‘sacrifice’ saved Shiv Sena (UBT) but sank the MNS Mumbai: In the volatile theatre of Maharashtra politics, the long-awaited reunion of the Thackeray cousins on the campaign trail was supposed to be the masterstroke that reclaimed Mumbai. The results of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, however, tell a story of tragic asymmetry. While the alliance has successfully helped the Shiv Sena (UBT) stem the saffron tide and regain lost ground, it has left Raj...

The Unequal Cousins

Raj Thackeray’s ‘sacrifice’ saved Shiv Sena (UBT) but sank the MNS Mumbai: In the volatile theatre of Maharashtra politics, the long-awaited reunion of the Thackeray cousins on the campaign trail was supposed to be the masterstroke that reclaimed Mumbai. The results of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, however, tell a story of tragic asymmetry. While the alliance has successfully helped the Shiv Sena (UBT) stem the saffron tide and regain lost ground, it has left Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) staring at an existential crisis. The final tally reveals a brutal reality for the MNS - Raj Thackeray played the role of the savior for his cousin, but in the process, he may have become the sole loser of the 2026 mandate. The worse part is that the Shiv Sena (UBT) is reluctant to accept this and is blaming Raj for the poor performance of his party leading to the defeat. A granular analysis of the ward-wise voting patterns exposes the fundamental flaw in this tactical alliance. The vote transfer, the holy grail of any coalition, operated strictly on a one-way street. Data suggests that the traditional MNS voter—often young, aggressive, and driven by regional pride—heeded Raj Thackeray’s call and transferred their votes to Shiv Sena (UBT) candidates in wards where the MNS did not contest. This consolidation was critical in helping the UBT hold its fortresses against the BJP's "Infra Man" juggernaut. However, the favor was not returned. In seats allocated to the MNS, the traditional Shiv Sena (UBT) voter appeared hesitant to back the "Engine" (MNS symbol). Whether due to lingering historical bitterness or a lack of instructions from the local UBT leadership, the "Torch" (UBT symbol) voters did not gravitate toward Raj’s candidates. The result? The UBT survived, while the MNS candidates were left stranded. ‘Second Fiddle’ Perhaps the most poignant aspect of this election was the shift in the personal dynamic between the Thackeray brothers. Decades ago, they parted ways over a bitter dispute regarding who would control the party helm. Raj, refusing to work under Uddhav, formed the MNS to chart his own path. Yet, in 2026, the wheel seems to have come full circle. By agreeing to contest a considerably lower number of seats and focusing his energy on the broader alliance narrative, Raj Thackeray tacitly accepted the role of "second fiddle." It was a pragmatic gamble to save the "Thackeray" brand from total erasure by the BJP-Shinde combine. While the brand survived, it is Uddhav who holds the equity, while Raj has been left with the debt. Charisma as a Charity Throughout the campaign, Raj Thackeray’s rallies were, as always, electric. His fiery oratory and charismatic presence drew massive crowds, a sharp contrast to the more somber tone of the UBT leadership. Ironically, this charisma served as a force multiplier not for his own party, but for his cousin’s. Raj acted as the star campaigner who energised the anti-BJP vote bank. He successfully articulated the anger against the "Delhi-centric" politics he accuses the BJP of fostering. But when the dust settled, the seats were won by UBT candidates who rode the wave Raj helped create. The MNS chief provided the wind for the sails, but the ship that docked in the BMC was captained by Uddhav. ‘Marathi Asmita’ Stung by the results and the realisation of the unequal exchange, Raj Thackeray took to social media shortly after the counting concluded. In an emotive post, he avoided blaming the alliance partner but instead pivoted back to his ideological roots. Urging his followers to "stick to the issue of Marathi Manoos and Marathi Asmita (pride)," Raj signaled a retreat to the core identity politics that birthed the MNS. It was a somber appeal, stripped of the bravado of the campaign, hinting at a leader who knows he must now rebuild from the rubble. The 2026 BMC election will be remembered as the moment Raj Thackeray proved he could be a kingmaker, even if it meant crowning the rival he once despised. He provided the timely help that allowed the Shiv Sena (UBT) to live to fight another day. But in the ruthless arithmetic of democracy, where moral victories count for little, the MNS stands isolated—a party that gave everything to the alliance and received nothing in return. Ironically, there are people within the UBT who still don’t want to accept this and on the contrary blame Raj Thackeray for dismal performance of the MNS, which they argue, derailed the UBT arithmetic. They state that had the MNS performed any better, the results would have been much better for the UBT.

Forensic Entomology: Role of Insects in Estimating Time of Death

Updated: Jan 2, 2025

Forensic Entomology

Forensic entomology is the branch of forensic science that deals with the study of arthropods, particularly insects, which are linked to crime and other areas of the legal system. It plays a crucial role in estimating the time of death, also known as the postmortem interval (PMI). This field combines entomology and forensic science to provide valuable evidence in criminal cases. Through the examination of insect life cycles and their colonisation patterns on decomposing remains, forensic entomologists can assist law enforcement in determining when a person died.


The roots of forensic entomology trace back to the 13th century in China, where insects were used to solve murder cases. The first recorded use of forensic entomology can be found in a book authored by Sung Tzu, titled ‘The Washing Away of Wrongs’. In the said book, there is a case illustrated, wherein, to find the murderer of a farmer, all the suspects were asked to lay their sickles on the ground, and only one sickle attracted blowflies and this led to the confession of the murderer. In Europe, significant advancements occurred during the 19th century. In India, forensic entomology gained recognition much later. The first systematic application occurred in the late 20th century, with experts like Dr. K.K. Sharma advocating for its use in criminal investigations. With increasing awareness and training among law enforcement officials, forensic entomology began to be integrated into Indian legal systems.


One landmark case demonstrating the efficacy of forensic entomology in India is the notable case in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (2012), where a murder victim was found with insect evidence that indicated the time of death was consistent with the suspect's timeline. Dr. Meenakshi Bharti, a scientist from the Department of Zoology at Punjabi University, Patiala, collaborated with the police to estimate the PMI using maggots found on the victim's body. By analysing the developmental stages of these insects, Dr. Bharti provided crucial information regarding the time since death, which was instrumental in the investigation.


The Indian judiciary has increasingly recognised the importance of scientific evidence, including forensic entomology. In several rulings, the Supreme Court has emphasised that such evidence can significantly contribute to establishing facts in cases involving suspicious deaths. The court has noted that while traditional forms of evidence are essential, modern forensic techniques enhance the reliability and accuracy of investigations. In the 2016 case of M. Sakthivel vs. The State before the Madras High Court, the court noted the potential of forensic entomology in determining the time of death. The judgement referenced a study highlighting methods to estimate the post-mortem interval based on insect activity.


Recent advancements in forensic entomology focus on improving accuracy in estimating PMI through various scientific techniques. Research has explored methods such as Accumulated Degree Hours (ADH), which considers temperature variations affecting insect development rates. This approach allows for more precise estimations based on local environmental conditions. Moreover, scientists are investigating genetic markers within insect populations to differentiate between species and understand their life cycles better. Techniques like hyperspectral imaging are being developed to analyse decomposition stages non-invasively, providing additional data for forensic investigations. Recent studies have also highlighted the role of microbial communities associated with decomposing bodies and their interaction with insects. Understanding these relationships can further refine PMI estimates and enhance the overall reliability of forensic conclusions.


Forensic entomology is an invaluable tool in modern criminal investigations, particularly in estimating the time of death. Its historical roots and evolving methodologies underscore its significance within legal frameworks globally and in India specifically. As research continues to advance in this field, its integration into forensic science promises to enhance investigative accuracy and justice delivery.


(Dr. Kumar is a retired IPS officer and forensic advisor of Government of Assam. Bora is a student of MSc Forensic Science at National Forensic Sciences University, Guwahati.)

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