Repatriation of Indian Victims of Kuwait Fire: IAF Aircraft Arrives in Kochi

An Indian Air Force (IAF) C30J aircraft carrying the mortal remains of 45 Indians, victims of a devastating building fire in Kuwait, landed at Kochi International Airport on June 14. Among the deceased, 31 were received in Kochi, including 23 Keralites, 7 Tamilians, and one person from Karnataka. The Kerala government arranged ambulances and a state delegation led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to pay homage.

Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh, who coordinated with Kuwaiti authorities for the swift repatriation, accompanied the bodies. The same aircraft will continue to Delhi. Meanwhile, a controversy arose over the Centre’s denial of clearance for Kerala State Health Minister Veena George to visit Kuwait as the state’s official representative, which she termed as unfortunate amidst the tragedy.