2 Indians amongst 39 killed in Istanbul's Christmas carnage, Sushma Swaraj arranges visit for victims' parents

Two Indians were amongst those who lost lives in the Christmas carnage in Turkish capital istabul on Saturday night. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sunday informed that one of the Indian victims was Abis Rizvi, son of former Rajya Sabha MP, and other was a Khushi Shah from Gujarat. 

“I have a bad news from Turkey. We have lost 2 Indian nationals in the Istanbul attack. Indian Ambassador on way to Istanbul,” said EAM Swaraj. 

She added, “The victims are Abis Rizvi son of former Rajya Sabha MP and Khushi Shah from Gujarat.” 

I have a bad news from Turkey. We have lost two Indian nationals in the Istanbul attack. Indian Ambassador is on way to Istanbul. /1

— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) January 1, 2017

The victims are Mr.Abis Rizvi son of former Rajya Sabha MP and Ms.Khushi Shah from Gujarat. /2

— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) January 1, 2017

I have just spoken to Mr.Akhtar Hassan Rizvi father of Abis Rizvi. He and Mrs Rizvi also want to go to Istanbul. We r organising their Visa.

— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) January 1, 2017

I have also spoken to Shri Ashok Shah father of Ms.Khushi Shah and conveyed our condolences.

— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) January 1, 2017

Thirty-nine people, including many foreigners, were killed when a gunman reportedly dressed as Santa Claus stormed an Istanbul nightclub as revellers were celebrating the New Year, the latest carnage to rock Turkey after a bloody 2016.

The assailant shot dead a policeman and a civilian at the entrance to the Reina club, one of the city’s most exclusive nightspots, and then went on a shooting rampage inside, Turkish officials said.

There has been no claim of responsibility.

Also read | Istanbul attack overshadows New Year festivities, 39 people killed including two Indian nationals

(With Inputs from PTI)