Georgia, the country that holds around 5767 Indian nationals and NRIs as per the external affairs ministry, came to the limelight when 11 Indian nationals were found dead inside an Indian restaurant, ‘Haveli,’ in the Georgian mountain resort of Gudauri. There was one Georgian citizen also among the deceased, as per the Georgian authorities, making the toll to be 12.
Initial Inspection: –
The preliminary inspections suggest that all that have lost their lives were present in their bedrooms on the second floor of the facility. There was no sign of injury and violence on the dead bodies of the victims; this led to further confusion among the officers, but soon the clouds started to be less blurry, and it was suggested that carbon monoxide poisoning could be responsible for the deaths.
As per sources, the poisoning could be from leakage in a power generator, which was turned on inside a closed facility nearby, not far away from their bedrooms, on Friday night. The generator was turned on after an electric cut, which might have triggered the release of the gas, which further led to poisoning. The gas is suspected to have been released into the rooms, making it hard for them to breathe in their sleep and causing loss of consciousness.
Further Investigation: –
A forensic examination is also underway to find the “exact” cause of the deaths by specialists. Along with that interview of persons related to this case, are also being conducted as per the Georgian ministry.
Article 116 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which deals with “negligent manslaughter,” a criminal charge that happens when someone’s death is caused by criminal negligence, i.e., if they fail to act when they have a duty to do so, or if they fail to perform a duty they owe to another person, resulting in death. This article is chosen by the Georgian police to launch an investigation into the deaths.
Indian Response: –
The death of Indian nationals in cold left many stunned. The Indian mission in Georgia, said in a statement that, “The mission has just learned about the death of 12 Indian nationals in Gudauri, Georgia. Deepest condolences to the bereaved families. Mission is in touch with the local authorities to get details of the Indian nationals who lost their lives. All possible assistance will be given.”
“The embassy is working closely with local authorities to facilitate the prompt repatriation of the mortal remains to India. We are also in contact with the bereaved families and are committed to providing all possible support,” the mission added.
People familiar with the case said that the victims were from “north India.”
Political jabs:
Gurjeet Singh Aujla, MP from Amritsar, through congress seat said on a X post on Monday, “12 Punjabis have tragically died from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning at a ski resort in Gudauri, Georgia.” He further added, “I urge CM Bhagwant Mann & Kuldeep Singh, NRI Minister, to take immediate steps to bring back bodies & support grieving families.”
His remarks about the issue and mention of Punjabis instead of Indians are gaining criticism from the opposition.
