K G Abraham, Managing Director of the Kuwait-based NBTC Group, has stated that his company is fully accepting responsibility for the tragic fire that claimed 50 lives, including 46 Indians, in Kuwait. The victims were employees of a firm under the NBTC Group and perished in a blaze at a seven-storey building in Mangaf on Saturday.
Speaking to reporters in Kochi, Abraham confirmed that the fire was caused by a short circuit in the building owned by NBTC. He emphasized that thorough inspections were regularly conducted and that the building was well-maintained. Despite believing that the accident was not due to any company fault, he assured that NBTC would take full responsibility and provide necessary support to the affected families, including financial security and job opportunities.
Abraham noted that the building was provided free of cost to the workers, with meals prepared by a dedicated kitchen staff and served in a common dining hall. He denied reports of a gas cylinder explosion, clarifying that the accident occurred in a leased building with no cases filed against the company so far.
He also acknowledged the swift action by the Kuwaiti Government, Indian Embassy, and Central Government, which facilitated the repatriation of the victims’ bodies within 48 hours. Abraham shared that he experienced health issues upon hearing the news but remains committed to personally visiting the victims’ families across India.
