Former Forensic Chief Breaks Silence on Autopsy Controversy

The arrest of a suspect nearly 10 years after the murder of Sohagi Jahan Tonu, a student of Comilla Victoria Government College, has renewed nationwide attention on the case. Alongside this development, fresh debate has emerged over the autopsy reports, bringing renewed scrutiny on Dr. Kamda Prasad Saha.

Dr. Saha, who was then a forensic specialist at Comilla Medical College and headed the three-member board that conducted the second autopsy, has recently faced criticism on social media. Although he has since been transferred, the controversy surrounding the autopsy report has resurfaced.

On Monday (April 27), Dr. Saha posted a detailed statement on his personal Facebook account addressing the issue.

In his statement, he said he had stayed away from social media for a long time but felt compelled to respond due to what he described as “misinformation, abuse, and threats.”

He clarified that he had no involvement in the first autopsy, which was conducted by another forensic according to duty roster.

Following public criticism at the time, the court ordered a second autopsy. Dr. Saha led the three-member expert board that conducted it after the body was exhumed 10 to 15 days later.

He explained that the body was significantly decomposed due to time and weather conditions, which limited the ability to determine a precise cause of death. However, the report suggested that investigators could consider surrounding evidence to establish the cause.

According to him, DNA tests conducted by CID found semen samples from three individuals on Tonu’s clothing, and this information was included in the report. He emphasized that the report did not conclude that Tonu had consensual relations with multiple people, adding that such interpretations were misrepresentations.

Dr. Saha also said the second autopsy report was prepared with the unanimous consent of all board members and remains a legal document held by investigating authorities.

He expressed concern over personal attacks and threats, stating that the situation has affected his professional and personal life. He denied allegations circulating online that he was trying to leave the country, calling them baseless.

Reaffirming his position, he said he supports a proper investigation and justice for Tonu and is ready to assist the court if required.