The forensic analysis of the 282 skeletons unearthed from an abandoned well in Ajnala, Punjab, in 2014, primarily confirmed their identity as Indian soldiers from the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny through which key combined evidence?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Mitochondrial DNA haplogroups and strontium isotope ratios indicating Gangetic plain origins

Explanation:

• In 2014, 282 human skeletons were found in a well at Ajnala.
• Historical records suggested they were soldiers of the 26th Native Bengal Infantry who revolted in 1857 and were executed.
• Mitochondrial DNA analysis showed the soldiers belonged to haplogroups common in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal, rather than Punjab.
• Strontium isotope analysis of teeth confirmed they grew up in the Gangetic plain (different soil/water chemistry than Punjab).
• This scientific evidence refuted claims that the bodies were victims of the 1947 Partition riots.

• The study was published in Frontiers in Genetics in 2022 by Dr. J.S. Sehrawat and Dr. Niraj Rai.
• The 26th Native Bengal Infantry was stationed at Mian Mir (Lahore) before the revolt.

• Incorrect; the DNA and isotopes specifically proved they were not locals of Punjab.

• Incorrect; scientific dating and the isotope evidence placed the event much earlier, consistent with 1857.

• Incorrect; while some artifacts were found, the primary confirmation of their identity/origin came from bio-archaeological markers (DNA/isotopes).