As part of their efforts to reach a definite conclusion on the age of the skulls discovered at Annigeri in Navalgund taluk, the Department of Archaeology and Museums is contemplating one more round of carbon dating.
Department Director R. Gopal told The Hindu that the matter of conducting one more test was being discussed by higher officials and the agency was likely to be selected within a few days. The department was contemplating roping in the Forensic Science Laboratory, Gujarat or once again approaching Beta Analytic, the U.S.-based firm that conducted the latest test and concluded that the skulls were 180 years old. “We have contacted the Forensic Science Laboratory to check if they have the required technology.
If they express inability to conduct the test, we will approach Beta Analytic again,” he said.
Mr. Gopal said the department would send tooth samples this time, instead of bone samples, for carbon dating. Last time, only bone samples were sent for testing. There are chances of water contamination of the bones, which could affect the process of carbon dating.
