LONDON/NEW DELHI: External affairs minister Salman Khurshid was closely following developments in the case of the death of an Indian woman in Ireland after she was refused termination of her pregnancy despite miscarrying.
This was conveyed to her husband Praveen Halappanavar, according to sources in the external affairs ministry.
Following a meeting of Indian ambassador to Dublin Debashish Chakravarti with Ireland's deputy prime minister and foreign minister Eamon Gilm, a senior MEA official contacted Praveen, the sources said.
They said the Indian government conveyed its condolences and deep regret at the sad demise of his wife Savita and briefed him of the details of discussions in Dublin and New Delhi between Indian and Irish officials.
"Halappanavar was also assured that Khurshid was closely following developments in the case and that the Indian mission in Dublin has been directed by the minister to continue to regularly keep him abreast of the developments and provide all necessary assistance," the sources said.
31-year-old Savita, a dentist, died in Ireland due to blood poisoning after doctors allegedly refused to terminate her 17-week pregnancy, telling her that it was a Catholic country. She died after spending three days in pain and agony.
India had summoned the Irish ambassador in New Delhi on Friday to convey its "concern and angst" over the tragic death of Savita and hoped the enquiry instituted into the case would be "independent".
Thousands of people, upset over the tragic death of Savita, have held rallies and candle light vigils across Ireland demanding changes in the country's draconian abortion laws.
"No more tragedies", the placards of the protesters read in Dublin and Galway as they demanded the changes in laws.
Salman Khurshid closely following developments in Savita Halappanavar death case
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Salman Khurshid closely following developments in Savita Halappanavar death case
