Early Friday morning, an Indian Air Force C-130J transport aircraft departed from Kuwait carrying the mortal remains of 45 Indian victims of the devastating Mangaf building fire. The tragic incident claimed the lives of at least 49 migrant workers and injured 50 others.
Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh, who arrived in Kuwait, ensured swift coordination with Kuwaiti authorities for the repatriation process. Ambulances have been arranged to transport the bodies upon arrival in Kochi, where family members will receive them.
A special IAF aircraft carrying mortal remains of 45 Indian victims in the fire incident in Kuwait has taken off for Kochi.
MoS @KVSinghMPGonda, who coordinated with Kuwaiti authorities ensuring swift repatriation, is onboard the aircraft pic.twitter.com/091hBNWzLL
— India in Kuwait (@indembkwt) June 13, 2024
Kuwaiti authorities have identified the bodies of 45 Indians and three Filipino nationals through DNA testing. Financial assistance directives have been issued by Kuwait’s Emir to support the affected families.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex gratia relief of ₹2 lakh from the PM Relief Fund for the families of the deceased Indian nationals. Various state governments, including Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, have confirmed the deaths of their residents in the tragic incident.
Kuwaiti authorities have initiated arrests and investigations related to charges of negligence and safety lapses. Prominent NRIs, including MA Yusuff Ali, have pledged financial aid to the families affected by the fire.
The Indian government continues to provide all possible assistance to the victims’ families and coordinate with Kuwait for further support and investigations.
This repatriation marks a solemn moment as India mourns the loss of its citizens and supports the families in their time of grief.