Bhubaneswar, 13 July (H.S.): Former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has expressed profound grief over the tragic capsizing of the fishing trawler Maa Kali off the West Bengal coast, which has claimed the lives of nine fishermen, while six others remain missing in the Bay of Bengal.

In a statement issued on Monday, Patnaik said he was deeply saddened by the tragedy that occurred near Kakdwip and expressed particular concern over the fate of three missing fishermen from Odisha's Balasore district.

Taking to social media platform X, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president said, “I am deeply saddened and heartbroken to learn of the tragic loss of many fishermen who have gone missing in the sea near Kakdwip in the Bay of Bengal. Knowing that three of the missing fishermen are from Odisha, I am greatly concerned. While praying for the eternal peace of the souls of the fishermen who have lost their lives, I also pray for the safe recovery of the other missing fishermen. At this hour of grief, I convey my deepest condolences to the bereaved family members.”

The three missing fishermen from Odisha have been identified as Rabindra Majhi, Jagannath Majhi and Jayaram Majhi, all brothers and residents of Uluda village under Bhograi block in Balasore district.

The trawler accident has sent shockwaves across coastal communities in both West Bengal and Odisha, with rescue teams continuing search operations to trace the missing fishermen.

Naveen Patnaik also extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and expressed hope for the safe return of the missing fishermen. The tragedy has triggered widespread concern in Odisha, particularly in Balasore district, where relatives of the missing fishermen continue to await news of their loved ones.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda