Air India Crash Victim’s Son Claims Wrong Remains Returned
Miten Patel, the son of Shobhana Patel, who perished in the Air India plane crash, has reported to the BBC that “other remains” were discovered in his mother’s casket upon its return to the UK. Mit
en, whose father also died in the incident, expressed his concern after the coroner identified the mixed-up remains, questioning, “How many others are in there?”
Reports emerged on Wednesday indicating that families were receiving incorrect bodies following the crash that claimed 260 lives shortly after take-off in early June. India’s foreign ministry stated that all remains were treated with “utmost professionalism” and dignity, and assured that they are collaborating with UK officials to address these issues.
A spokesperson from the UK government remarked, “Formal identification of bodies is a matter for the Indian authorities.” They added that they are in communication with both the Government of Gujarat and the Government of India to assist the coroner’s process.
Ashok and Shobhana Patel were returning home to visit their sons and grandchildren on June 12 when the Gatwick-bound flight crashed in Ahmedabad, western India. Miten described the mix-up as “obviously very upsetting,” while acknowledging that mistakes can occur under pressure. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the correct bodies are sent to the UK, asking, “How do I know there aren’t other remains in the casket with her?”
Reports indicate that at least two cases involved the return of incorrect remains to families in the UK—one family reportedly received an entirely wrong body, while another case involved multiple remains in a single casket. India’s foreign ministry acknowledged awareness of the situation and is actively addressing it.
