Indian national’s sudden death: IHC helps send remains home to Kolkata

The 45-year-old Indian national Sachin Giri unexpectedly passed away recently, leaving his friends and Auckland's Kiwi Indian community in shock.

Sachin was found unresponsive at his home in Mt Eden by his neighbour on the morning of 12 November. The exact time and reason for his passing away are still unknown. His death certificate revealed that he passed away between November 10 and 12.

Sachin, who hailed from Siliguri in West Bengal, was an NZ permanent resident and has been a Store Manager with Mobil Mt Eden since 2013. He is survived by his wife, Dechen Bhutia and their four-year-old daughter, who are currently in India.

His body is being repatriated to Kolkata, India, on Sunday (November 20) and is expected to reach Kolkata on Tuesday via Emirates Airlines – Auckland-Dubai-Kolkata.

The High Commission of India has made all the necessary arrangements to help with the repatriation and will bear all costs. When contacted, HE Neeta Bhushan, the High Commissioner of India to New Zealand, said, “The High Commission came to know about the sad demise of Mr Sachin Giri, an Indian national, on 12.11.22. Immediately our officers contacted his wife, Ms Dechen Bhutia, who is in India, and friends in Auckland, and extended heartfelt condolences and assured them of all possible help. The High Commission team immediately started completing documentation and other formalities to repatriate Mr Giri to India as per his wife's request. We have made all arrangements to transport the mortal remains of Mr Giri by air to Kolkata.”

Sachin's employer Shobhana Singh can't believe that he is no more. Speaking to Indian Weekender, she said, "I have so many good memories of him that I will cherish forever. I still have not accepted that he is not with us anymore. He was such a strong pillar for me and my business. I am regularly in touch with his wife and providing all the support we can."

Shobhana revealed that Sachin had returned from India on November 3 after spending time with his family.

It may be noted that Sachin was diabetic and had some health issues but was looking forward to joining work.

Shobhana said that the last text she received from him was a thank you message on November 10. 

Shobhana is overwhelmed by the High Commission's support at this time of grief. She said, "I can't thank the High Commission of India enough for their support in repatriating Sachin back to India. The fact that they are bearing all the expenses is a huge relief for us and Sachin's family. I want to thank the High Commission of India and especially Bhav Dhillon, the Hon Consul of India in Auckland, for all his help."