RIYADH – K. N. Wasif
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh issued a formal clarification today, addressing the recent “unfortunate incident” in Al Kharj. Contrary to widespread social media reports, the Embassy confirmed that there have been no Indian fatalities resulting from the event.
Clarifying Viral Misinformation
The statement comes as a vital correction to reports that had recently gone viral across various media platforms. Those reports erroneously claimed that an Indian national and a Bangladeshi national had been killed during a military shelling incident in Al Kharj, a suburban region located south of the Saudi capital, Riyadh.
While the incident did result in casualties and injuries among other nationalities, the Embassy’s official X (formerly Twitter) account and direct correspondence with the Times of NRIs have confirmed that the Indian national involved survived the encounter.
Consular Response and Patient Status
The Indian mission has been proactive in its diplomatic and humanitarian response:
- Hospital Visit: Shri Y. Sabir, Consul General of India (Community Welfare), traveled to Al Kharj immediately following the incident.
- Condition of the Injured: Shri Sabir visited the injured Indian national currently receiving medical attention at a local government hospital. The individual is reported to be undergoing treatment for injuries sustained during the shelling.
- Official Liaison: The Embassy remains in constant communication with relevant Saudi government departments to monitor the situation and ensure the safety of the diaspora.
“It is a matter of relief that there has been no Indian fatality in the unfortunate incident at Al Kharj yesterday evening,” the Embassy stated, emphasizing their ongoing coordination with Saudi authorities.
Ongoing Coordination
The Indian Embassy continues to work closely with Saudi officials to gather further details and provide all necessary support to the affected national. The mission has urged the community to rely on official channels for information to avoid the spread of unverified and distressing rumors.
