The heartbroken families of two young Sydney men who tragically drowned in front of their partners during a long weekend celebration are now facing the immense challenge of bringing their loved ones home. Sachin Khillan, 31, and Sahil Batra, also in his 30s, both Indian nationals residing in Sydney, lost their lives in a devastating incident at the Never Never River in Gleniffer on the NSW Mid North Coast.
A Fatal Misjudgement in the Water
The tragedy unfolded around 6.45pm on Sunday evening. The men, celebrating with their fiancée and pregnant wife alongside friends, entered the water believing it to be shallow. A friend of both victims, Sunita, explained they were being responsible and cautious, noting a "no diving" sign was nearby, which they interpreted as an indicator of safe, shallow conditions.
"They were being responsible and cautious, stepping only into shallow water," Sunita said. "In an unforeseeable moment, a strong current surged and swept them away. What should have been an innocent moment turned into an unthinkable tragedy."
Emergency Response and Aftermath
Emergency services rushed to the scene and managed to pull both men from the water, but despite their efforts, they were unable to revive them. The aftermath has left families and communities shattered.
Sahil Batra's wife of eight years, Sakshi Arora, who is seven months pregnant, witnessed the horrific event and was subsequently transported to hospital, where she received treatment for shock. The couple had moved to Australia from India in 2022, with their social media profiles painting a picture of a happy life together, including recent celebrations like a baby shower held just two weeks prior.
Profiles of the Victims
Sachin Khillan was a dedicated carpentry trainer at the Nova Institute of Technology. The institute paid tribute to him on social media, expressing "deep sadness" at his passing.
"Sachin was a deeply valued member of our community, known for his dedication, professionalism, and the genuine care he showed his students and colleagues," the institute wrote. "His passion for teaching and the positive impact he had on so many lives will always be remembered. Our heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with Sachin’s family, friends, students, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time."
Families Left in Despair
According to Kalkal, a friend speaking on behalf of the families, both men were the sole breadwinners for their elderly parents back in India, who are themselves suffering from critical medical conditions. This compounds the tragedy, leaving the parents not only grieving but also facing financial uncertainty.
The families are now hoping to repatriate the men's bodies to India. A GoFundMe page has been established to support the costly repatriation process and to provide financial assistance to the grieving parents.
"We are raising the target so that any remaining funds can be sent to their elderly parents, who have lost their sons and must now live with this pain for the rest of their lives," Kalkal said. "Your kindness will help them survive this unimaginable grief and know they are not alone."
Ongoing Investigations
In a related development, another man in his 30s, who had also been submerged in the water during the incident, was transported to hospital for treatment. Authorities have established a crime scene at the location, and a comprehensive report will be prepared for the coroner to determine the exact circumstances surrounding these tragic deaths.
This incident serves as a sombre reminder of the unpredictable dangers that can exist in natural waterways, even in areas that may appear deceptively safe.
