Srinagar, Nov 7 (KNS): The mortal remains of Kashmiri student Adnan Altaf Rathar, who died in Cumilla, Bangladesh, on November 4, are likely to reach India on Sunday, with the repatriation process entering its final stages following delays that have caused immense distress to his family.

According to the latest update on the repatriation process, the post-mortem report has been received, the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC) has been issued by the Indian High Commission, and the embalming process is currently underway.

The delay in bringing back the mortal remains has caused considerable anguish to the bereaved family, particularly Adnan's mother, who is presently in Bangladesh and awaiting the completion of the formalities.

Those coordinating the repatriation said they have been consistently following up with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Indian High Commission in Bangladesh and other concerned authorities to expedite the process.

The matter was also escalated to the Bangladesh government on Saturday through the intervention of a senior Indian journalist to facilitate the remaining procedures.

According to the update, Friday being an official holiday in Bangladesh emerged as a major hurdle in arranging the mandatory embalming procedure.

Despite efforts by the Indian High Commission, arranging a government-authorised doctor proved difficult as the doctors approached were unavailable.

Officials involved in the coordination said embalming was mandatory given the condition of the mortal remains, while international airlines do not accept bodies for transportation without the prescribed embalming certification and other necessary documentation.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The repatriation process involved several mandatory procedures, including a post-mortem examination, issuance of the Embassy NOC, embalming, packing and other clearances required for international transportation.

With the post-mortem report now received and the NOC issued, a doctor has been arranged to undertake the embalming procedure, removing a major hurdle in the repatriation process.

According to the update, the Indian side has completed the necessary formalities, while the remaining procedures are being facilitated in coordination with the Bangladesh authorities.

The embalming, packing and subsequent handover of the mortal remains to the family are expected to be completed shortly.

Subject to the completion of these procedures and confirmation of flight arrangements, the body is expected to reach India on Sunday.

Those pursuing the matter said they remained in constant contact with the family and the authorities concerned to ensure that no further avoidable delay occurs.

They acknowledged the immense pain and anguish being endured by the bereaved family and reiterated that every possible effort was being made to bring Adnan's mortal remains home with dignity at the earliest.

The family continues to await the return of the young student's body as coordination between Indian and Bangladeshi authorities enters its final stage. (KNS)