India on Tuesday, 23 June confirmed it is coordinating with Qatari authorities to identify and repatriate the mortal remains of 12 Indian nationals killed in the explosion at Qatar's Ras Laffan Industrial City on Sunday night. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described the tragedy as 'very unfortunate' and said the Indian Embassy in Doha is in active contact with affected families.

What the MEA Said

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, addressing his weekly media briefing, confirmed that 12 Indian nationals lost their lives in the blast at the Ras Laffan gas field. He noted that nationals of multiple other countries also perished in the incident.

Jaiswal stated that 66 people of various nationalities were injured in the explosion, though the exact number of injured Indian nationals was yet to be ascertained. He added that all injured Indian nationals are currently safe and in stable condition.

'Very unfortunate death of 12 Indian nationals. Several others also died of other nationalities, but we lost 12 of our nationals in the tragedy in the Ras Laffan gas field, where an explosion happened. Several other people have also been injured. I am told that some 66 people are injured across nationalities. We do not know exactly how many of them are Indian nationals, but all those people who are injured are safe,' Jaiswal stated.

Government's Response and Assurances

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar expressed deep sorrow over the deaths and injuries, including those involving Indian nationals. He assured that the Indian Embassy in Doha is in constant contact with Qatari authorities and is providing all necessary assistance to the families of affected Indian citizens.

'Deeply saddened by the loss of lives and injuries, including of Indian nationals, in the explosion at Qatar's Ras Laffan Industrial City. As further details emerge, our Embassy continues to be in touch with Qatari authorities, and is reaching out to render assistance to the families of Indian nationals affected by this tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families,' EAM Jaishankar posted on X.

Embassy Working to Repatriate Remains

The Embassy of India in Qatar confirmed on Monday that Qatari authorities had formally verified the deaths of 12 Indian nationals in the Ras Laffan incident. The embassy extended condolences to the bereaved families and confirmed that all those injured in the blast are in stable condition and receiving appropriate medical treatment.

The embassy further stated it is working closely with Qatari authorities to ensure the mortal remains of the deceased are repatriated to India at the earliest. The identification process is currently under way.

What Happens Next

India is simultaneously in contact with the families of the deceased to keep them informed and facilitate the repatriation process. The precise number of Indian nationals among the 66 injured is still being ascertained. This incident underscores the vulnerability of the large Indian diaspora working in Gulf industrial zones, where India has consistently maintained active consular mechanisms. Further official details are expected as the identification process progresses.