The Embassy of India in Doha confirmed on 27 June 2026 that the mortal remains of all 12 Indian nationals killed in the industrial accident at Ras Laffan Industrial City in Qatar have been repatriated to India, completing a coordinated effort between the two governments following one of the deadliest workplace tragedies involving Indian workers in recent memory.

Repatriation Completed in Two Phases

The repatriation was carried out over two consecutive days. The remains of 4 Indian nationals were flown home on 25 June, followed by the remaining 8 on 26 June, the embassy confirmed in a post on X. The embassy acknowledged the role of multiple stakeholders, thanking Qatari authorities, Indian community organisations, and government authorities in India for their 'prompt support' in facilitating the process.

Embassy Officials Visit Injured Workers in Alkhor

Beyond the repatriation, the Indian Ambassador and embassy officials visited injured Indian nationals at a hospital in Alkhor on 27 June. The embassy stated that all injured workers have received 'appropriate medical attention', extending thanks to Qatari authorities and the employer company's representatives for their response.

What Happened at Ras Laffan

The accident occurred in the evening hours of Sunday, 22 June 2026, when an explosion and fire broke out at the Barzan local gas supply facility within Ras Laffan Industrial City, according to a statement by QatarEnergy. The company described it as an 'operational incident during start-up.' The Qatari Ministry of Interior subsequently confirmed that 13 people died and 66 others were injured due to a technical malfunction during an operation at the facility. The ministry extended condolences to the families of the deceased.

PM Modi Speaks with Qatar's Amir

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday thanked Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar, for his phone call and condolences. 'I thank His Highness the Amir of Qatar for his phone call and condolences on the loss of lives of Indian nationals in the tragic accident at Ras Laffan Industrial City in Qatar. We both share the grief of the families who have lost their loved ones and pray for the speedy recovery of those injured,' Modi wrote on X. He added that India and Qatar 'remain steadfast in their commitment to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens and stand in solidarity with each other.'

Broader Context

Qatar is home to a large Indian diaspora, many of whom are employed in the energy and construction sectors. The Ras Laffan Industrial City is one of the world's largest integrated industrial zones, central to Qatar's liquefied natural gas operations. Industrial accidents in the Gulf involving Indian migrant workers have repeatedly drawn attention to occupational safety standards and the need for stronger bilateral labour protections. This incident, with 12 Indian fatalities out of a total death toll of 13, is among the most severe such events in recent years. The swift diplomatic response — including the Amir's direct call to the Prime Minister — signals the strategic weight both nations attach to their bilateral relationship.