DOHA: A total of 279 Indians died in Qatar last year, up compared to previous years, according to data released by the Indian embassy yesterday.
The mission recorded 241 deaths in 2013 against 237 in 2012. Since January this year, the number of deaths has reached 33, indicating a further increase.
The data, released after the monthly Open House at the embassy, does not provide details about the causes of deaths.
There are 87 Indians at the Central Prison serving terms for offences. The number of Indians awaiting deportation at the Search and Follow Up Department has been put at 113.
Following requests from authorities for travel documents for Indian inmates at the department, the embassy has issued 13 emergency certificates this month.
It also issued nine air tickets to people in distress to return to India this month.
Since the beginning of this year, the Labour and Community Welfare Section of the embassy received 280 complaints from Indians seeking redress for problems.
Data shows a steady increase in the number of complaints received over the past three years. In 2014, the embassy received 3,943 complaints compared to 3,558 in 2013 and 3,385 in 2012.
The Indian Community Benevolent Forum under the embassy provides support for the needy through welfare initiatives, including air tickets, financial assistance and medical help.
The Peninsula
