Akhil Gogoi Demands DNA Testing for Remains at Charaideo Maidams

Guwahati: Raijor Dal chief and MLA Akhil Gogoi wants state authorities to use DNA analysis on human remains recovered from the Charaideo Maidams. He issued the call on Tuesday to better understand the Ahom dynasty, which controlled Assam for six centuries. These remains sit at the Archaeological Directorate museum in Charaideo.

Maidam No. 2, often cited as the resting place of Swargadeo Rudra Singha, yielded one male skull and three female skulls. Experts estimate the male was 40 years old. The female skulls belong to people between 16 and 25 years old. The age gaps fuel debate over whether the remains truly belong to the king or if they include attendants buried during royal funerary rites. "Shouldn't the DNA of the Swargadeos and others be tested?" Gogoi asked.

Research at Maidam No. 78 also uncovered teeth, hands, and feet. Gogoi insists that modern science can provide answers without harming the fragile historic structures. He wants a wider research program to confirm the identities and timelines of those buried at the complex. "Charaideo's museum makes me inquisitive every time I visit it. We need more research," he said.