Kashmiri Youth Dies in Saudi Arabia; JKSA Writes to EAM Jaishankar for Repatriation of Mortal Remains

Srinagar| Feb,20: The Jammu & Kashmir Students Association on Thursday has written to External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, urging him to facilitate the return of the mortal remains of Khalid Saifullah Malik, a 25-year-old resident of Pallpora, Dailgam, Anantnag, Jammu & Kashmir, who tragically passed away in Abha, Saudi Arabia, under uncertain circumstances.
In an official communication to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the association said that Khalid had traveled to Saudi Arabia nearly two months ago for employment at a rehabilitation center. On February 19, 2025, his family received the devastating news of his untimely demise, leaving them in deep anguish. The cause of death remains unknown so far, further adding to the family’s distress. The association has emphasized that the grieving family requires immediate assistance in bringing back the young student’s mortal remains so that they can perform his last rites in accordance with religious and cultural traditions.
National Convenor of Association Nasir Khuehami has urged the External Affairs Minister to facilitate the repatriation of the deceased student’s remains at the earliest. He also requested the Ministry of External Affairs to take immediate steps, in coordination with the Saudi authorities, to expedite the process and bring the body home for the last rites in his ancestral village. The association has called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Khalid’s untimely demise, ensuring that the family receives much-needed clarity and justice.Recognizing the MEA’s consistent efforts in assisting distressed Indian citizens abroad, the association expressed hope for a swift response. It also hoped that both Indian and Saudi authorities would work together to ensure a smooth and prompt resolution of the matter.