On the directions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Minister of State Kirti Vardhan Singh has arrived in Kuwait following a tragic fire incident at a labour housing facility in the Mangaf area.
The Indian Embassy in Kuwait confirmed his arrival via a post on X, stating that Singh immediately visited Jaber hospital to check on the well-being of six injured Indians. All of them are reported to be safe.
This devastating fire incident occurred on Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of around 40 Indians and injuring over 50. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that the injured are being treated in five government hospitals in Kuwait: Adan, Jaber, Farwaniya, Mubarak Al Kabeer, and Jahra. The hospital authorities have assured that most of the patients are in stable condition.
Indian Ambassador to Kuwait, Adarsh Swaika, visited the site of the incident and the hospitals to ensure the welfare of the Indian nationals. The MEA stated that the embassy is actively coordinating with local authorities to assist those affected and is receiving full cooperation from the Kuwaiti government.
Prime Minister Modi has directed immediate action to facilitate the repatriation of the mortal remains of the deceased and provide medical assistance to the injured. The Indian Embassy in Kuwait has set up a helpline for family members to receive updates and offer support.
Before departing for Kuwait, Kirti Vardhan Singh highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that some bodies were charred beyond recognition, necessitating DNA tests for identification. He assured that an Air Force plane is on standby to bring the bodies back to India once they are identified.
Speaking at the Delhi Airport, Singh described the urgency and gravity of the situation. He emphasised the government's commitment to providing relief and support to the affected families. Singh also mentioned that the identification process is underway and the Indian Air Force is prepared to facilitate the repatriation as soon as possible.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with his Kuwaiti counterpart, Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, urging swift action for the repatriation of the deceased. Jaishankar was assured that the incident would be thoroughly investigated and those responsible would be held accountable. He emphasised that the injured are receiving necessary medical care and promised to review the situation after Kirti Vardhan Singh's arrival in Kuwait.
Following the incident, Prime Minister Modi chaired a review meeting and announced an ex-gratia relief of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister's Relief Fund for the families of the deceased.
He expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and extended his condolences to the bereaved families. Modi also assured all possible assistance from the Indian government for the injured, wishing them a speedy recovery.
The official statement from the Prime Minister's Office highlighted the government's immediate response and commitment to supporting the affected individuals and their families during this difficult time.
The swift actions taken by the Indian government, including the deployment of senior officials and the provision of financial aid, underscore the priority placed on the welfare of Indian nationals abroad.
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