Rahul Gandhi Voices Concern Over Indian Workers’ Condition After Kuwait Fire
Government Responds to Tragic Fire Incident in Kuwait
13.06.2024: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed profound shock and sorrow on Wednesday over the tragic fire in Kuwait City that claimed the lives of more than 40 Indian workers. Gandhi highlighted the dire situation of Indian workers in the Middle East, urging immediate attention to their conditions.
“Shocked and saddened by the horrific news of the death of more than 40 Indians in a fire in Kuwait City. My deepest condolences go out to the bereaved families, and I wish a speedy recovery to all those injured. The condition of our workers in the Middle East is a serious matter of concern,” Gandhi stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
He emphasized the need for the Indian government to collaborate with Middle Eastern counterparts to ensure the safety and dignified living standards for Indian workers abroad.
In response to the tragedy, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh is set to travel urgently to Kuwait, following directives from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Singh will oversee assistance efforts for the injured and coordinate with local authorities to expedite the repatriation of the deceased.
“As directed by PM Narendra Modi, MoS for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh is urgently travelling to Kuwait to oversee assistance to those injured in the fire tragedy and to coordinate with local authorities for early repatriation of mortal remains of those who have died in this unfortunate incident,” stated Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal in a post on X.
Singh affirmed that the Prime Minister has convened a meeting to discuss immediate action. “PM Modi has called us for a meeting and after the meeting, we will visit Kuwait. Immediate action will be taken,” he said.
The fire broke out in a building housing workers in Mangaf, southern Kuwait, early on Wednesday. India’s ambassador to Kuwait, Adarsh Swaika, visited the Al-Adan hospital where over 30 Indian workers are receiving treatment.
“The ambassador met with several patients and assured them of full assistance from the Embassy,” the Indian Embassy in Kuwait shared on X. Additionally, Swaika visited Farwaniya Hospital, where six injured workers, presumed to be mostly Indian, were treated. Of these, four have been discharged, one transferred to Jahra Hospital, and one remains stable.
The Indian Embassy has established an emergency helpline (+965-65505246) for updates related to the fire accident. “All concerned are requested to connect over this helpline for updates. The embassy remains committed to rendering all possible assistance,” it said in a statement on X.
Earlier, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed his deep shock and extended condolences. “Deeply shocked by the news of the fire incident in Kuwait City. There are reportedly over 40 deaths and over 50 hospitalized. Our Ambassador has gone to the camp. We are awaiting further information. My deepest condolences to the families of those who tragically lost their lives. Wish early and full recovery to those who have been injured. Our Embassy will render the fullest assistance to all concerned in this regard,” he posted on X.