'Extremely saddened': PM Modi condoles deaths of 15 Indians in Vietnam boat accident, assures 'all possible assistance'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed grief over the deaths of 15 Indian tourists in a boat accident off Vietnam's Phu Quoc Island, saying Indian officials are extending all possible assistance and remain in close coordination with the Vietnamese authorities.

Taking to X, the Prime Minister said he was “extremely saddened” by the tragedy involving Indian nationals.

“Extremely saddened to learn about the tragic news of a boat accident involving Indian nationals near Phu Quoc, Vietnam. My sincere condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. My prayers for the early recovery of the injured survivors. Our Embassy and Consulate are providing all possible assistance. Our officials are also in close contact with the Vietnamese authorities,” he wrote.

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15 Indian tourists killed

PM Modi's remarks came after a boat carrying 36 people — 32 Indian tourists and four crew members — capsized about 400 metres from the shore while returning from Hon May Rut Island.

Vietnamese authorities rescued 21 people from the sea, while 15 Indian tourists, including two women and 13 men, were confirmed dead.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also condoled the loss of lives and said India stood firmly with the affected families.

“My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured and for the success of the ongoing search and rescue operations. India stands with the affected families during this difficult time. Our Embassy in Vietnam is providing all possible assistance to Indian nationals affected by this tragedy,” Singh posted on X.

Indian embassy sets up emergency response

The Indian Embassy in Vietnam said it had activated emergency response centres in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to assist the victims and their families.

“In a tragic incident, a boat carrying several Indian tourists has capsized near Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam a few hours ago. Exact details of the incident are being ascertained as search and rescue operations by local authorities are ongoing,” the embassy said in a statement on X.

Rescue operations underway

Television footage from Vietnam showed rough seas and strong winds as rescue teams launched an operation to save passengers. Lifebuoys were thrown into the water, while jet skis ferried survivors back to shore, where emergency responders and bystanders administered first aid.

According to reports, the victims were employees and distributors of smartphone maker Lava Mobiles. Local media said the boat encountered rough sea conditions and high waves at the time of the accident.