Forensic examination to determine the correlation between fingerprint patterns and blood groups in the population of...

Fingerprints are a widely used biometric marker in both civil identification and forensic investigations. This study aimed to examine variations in fingerprint patterns and their association with ABO blood groups in a north-eastern Indian population. A cross-sectional design was employed, including a relatively large sample of 1,040 volunteers aged 18-28 years, which is uncommon in comparable dermatoglyphic studies. Blood groups were determined using ABO monoclonal kits, and fingerprints were collected using an ink-based fingerprint pad and roller, followed by analysis with handheld optical magnification. Statistical analysis using the Chi-square test demonstrated a statistically significant correlation between fingerprint patterns and blood groups (p = 0.030), indicating a non-random association at the level of fingerprint observations. Although the findings should be interpreted with appropriate caution regarding inferential strength, the observed correlation may support preliminary forensic screening, particularly in scenarios involving compromised DNA samples or resource-limited settings. The study contributes robust, population-specific dermatoglyphic data to the existing literature. However, the results should not be interpreted as deterministic or predictive at the individual level, and further studies employing participant-level analytical approaches are recommended to strengthen the evidentiary basis of these observations.