Patna, April 8 (NationPress) A heartbreaking scenario has unfolded for a family in Patna following the untimely demise of Binda Singh, a local trader, in Vietnam while he was receiving medical care. For the last three days, his family has been in limbo, waiting for the return of his remains, but local authorities have allegedly denied permission due to complications related to his visa. The distressed family is now urging the Centre for assistance in resolving this complex situation.

Binda Singh, who lived in Vigrahpur and worked as an electronics trader in the Chandni Chowk district of Patna, had traveled to Vietnam a month prior as part of a large Indian business delegation.

This trip was organized by a private tour company, which included around 25 individuals from Patna.

Family members report that Singh experienced a heart attack at a Vietnamese airport just as the group was preparing to head back home.

He was swiftly taken to a hospital on Phu Quoc Island and later transferred to another hospital in Ho Chi Minh City for more intensive care.

Relatives assert that the transfer necessitated a distinct visa for that city, which wasn't included in the original travel itinerary.

Despite showing initial signs of recovery—being taken off ventilator support and moved to a standard ward—his health took a turn for the worse due to ongoing complications.

After his passing, the family has faced hurdles in repatriating his body owing to the unresolved visa issues.

Moreover, Singh's grandson and another relative, who traveled to Vietnam as his health declined, are also reportedly stranded there.

This situation has plunged the family into profound distress, prompting relatives in Patna to implore authorities for immediate action.

“We have reached out to the Government of India, but there seems to be no progress. The tour operator has also distanced itself from the matter. My father was over 75 and lacked travel insurance,” said Rajesh Kumar, Singh’s son.

Singh’s wife, Malti Devi, made an emotional appeal to the government, stating, “My husband is no longer with us; please bring his body back. Our children are also stuck there. We urge the government to help us return home.”

His granddaughter, Amisha, mentioned that the family has been persistently contacting both Indian and Vietnamese officials, including the Ministry of External Affairs, requesting prompt action.

“It has been over three days, yet the visa process remains stagnant. We ask the government to expedite the return of my grandfather’s body,” she said.

This incident raises serious concerns about the coordination necessary in handling medical emergencies and the repatriation of Indian citizens abroad, particularly in cases involving visa challenges.