Air India Crash Survivor Seeks Urgent Support

Vishwashkumar (Vishwas) Ramesh, a 39–40-year-old British citizen, is the sole survivor of the June 12 Air India Flight AI171 crash in Ahmedabad that killed hundreds and has described his escape as a “miracle” while mourning his brother. Since returning to Leicester he has lasting physical injuries and severe post-traumatic stress, and advisers say he has not received specialist psychiatric care. His family's fishing business has collapsed and they face acute financial hardship; Air India has paid an interim sum of roughly £21,500, which Ramesh’s lawyers and community supporters say is insufficient. Radd Seiger, a UK lawyer volunteering as the family’s adviser, and local community leaders are urging Air India's CEO to meet the family and help assemble a comprehensive welfare package covering medical, psychological and day-to-day support. A preliminary Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau report found the aircraft’s engine fuel switches were moved to the “cut-off” position immediately after takeoff, cutting fuel to the engines and raising questions about whether the crash was deliberate; the investigation is ongoing.