Confusion and Grief Surround Air India Crash Victim Identification

Miten Patel, whose parents perished in the incident, reveals shocking mix-ups in the return of bodies, highlighting deep emotional and logistical challenges.

The aftermath of the Air India crash that killed 260 people has become embroiled in confusion and distress as Miten Patel, the son of one of the victims, claims "other remains" were found mixed with his mother’s body after it was returned to the UK. Miten, who lost both his parents, Shobhana and Ashok Patel, recounted his horror when the coroner informed him of the identification errors. He questioned the integrity of the remnants, saying, "How many others are in there?” This revelation comes after reports surfaced indicating the misidentification of remains and wrong bodies being sent to families in the UK.

The incident occurred shortly after the Gatwick-bound plane crashed in Ahmedabad, India, on June 12. In response to these troubling reports, the Indian foreign ministry insisted that all remains were treated with "utmost professionalism" and dignity, while also collaborating with UK authorities to resolve emerging concerns. A UK government spokesperson reiterated that the formal identification procedures are under the purview of the Indian authorities, emphasizing ongoing communication with both the Government of Gujarat and the Indian government.

The Patel family was eager to return to the UK to see their sons and grandchildren when the tragedy struck. While Miten acknowledged the immense pressure faced by the authorities during such crises, he expressed deep disappointment, stating, "There has to be a level of responsibility that you're sending the right bodies to the UK." Reports from The Daily Mail highlighted two instances of alleged mismanagement in the return of remains, one involving an entirely wrong body sent to a family, and another where multiple remains were inadequately stored in the same casket.

In light of the miscommunications, a lawyer representing affected families indicated they anticipate UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to address these concerns directly with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during Modi's forthcoming visit to the UK. “The families deserve urgent answers and assurances about the whereabouts of their loved ones,” the lawyer insisted.

Meanwhile, the UK’s Foreign Office has pledged to continue providing support for grieving relatives, having assigned dedicated caseworkers for families seeking assistance and ensuring that liaison officers remain accessible for those in need. As investigations into the crash unfold, the emotional toll on families continues to grow amidst these tragic revelations.