Dr. Balraj Sethi, the head of medical affairs at Novartis Malaysia, remains missing after being swept away by the powerful currents of the Alaknanda River in northern India on Tuesday morning. The incident occurred as he attempted to save his father.
Kevin Sugumaran, a close friend of the victim’s family, stated that Indian authorities have been unable to locate Dr. Balraj, despite search and rescue efforts that have now entered their sixth day.
“We were informed by the Malaysian High Commission this afternoon that the search operation is still underway,” he told Malay Mail.
“However, we are hopeful that the local authorities will take more proactive steps in finding and rescuing Dr. Balraj,” he added.
The Times of India reported that 40-year-old Dr. Balraj Sethi leaped into the river in a bid to rescue his father, Suresh Chandra, 67, who had been swept away by the strong currents.
Although his father was rescued roughly 200 meters downstream, Dr. Balraj remains missing. Indian police stated that Dr. Balraj arrived in India on September 14 with his parents, son, and cousin for a 10-day pilgrimage.
After visiting three shrines, the family reached the Badrinath Temple on Tuesday morning to complete their pilgrimage. Dr. Balraj’s father had approached the river to perform ‘tarpan,’ a ritual offering water to ancestors. However, when he ventured too far into the river, he was caught in the strong currents and swept away. In an effort to rescue his father, Dr. Sethi jumped into the river but was also carried off by the currents. Fortunately, nearby laborers were able to save Chandra,” the police reported.
Dr. Balraj’s brother, Suraaj Sethi, issued a statement requesting help from individuals with expertise in river rescue to aid in finding his brother.
“We appreciate the efforts of the local authorities and police in the ongoing search.
However, we urge additional organizations and authorities, such as the Indian Army, which has access to more advanced equipment like drones and sonar, to expand the search. We also appeal to compassionate individuals to join the efforts to locate Dr. Sethi,” he said.
“His family, friends, and community are in urgent need of your support. If you have expertise in river rescues, familiarity with the area, or can help spread the word, we welcome any assistance in our efforts to bring Dr. Sethi home safely,” he stated.
Source: Malay Mail
