New Delhi today summoned Irish Ambassador Feilim McLaughlin in connection with the death of an Indian national, who was refused abortion in a Dublin hospital. According to a statement by External Affairs Ministry, Secretary (West) M Ganapathi, in his meeting with Irish Ambassador, expressed India's concern and angst in the society over the untimely and tragic death of 31-year-old dentist Savita Halappanavar hailing from Karnataka.

Mr Ganapathi expressed the hope that the probe instituted by the Irish authorities would be independent and the Indian envoy in Dublin provided with information regarding its progress. The statement said McLaughlin assured full cooperation from the Irish side in the follow-up enquiries into the circumstances of the death of Savita. He also indicated that the terms of reference for the enquiry are being framed and would be released shortly.

Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid termed the death of Savita as unfortunate, saying whatever the inquiry does, human loss cannot be compensated.

AIR Correspondent reports, Savita Halappanavar died in Ireland last month due to blood poisoning after doctors refused to terminate her 17-week-long pregnancy on the ground that Ireland was a Catholic country.

The tragic death of Savita Halappanavar evoked global outrage, Irish authorities has said they would appoint an independent external expert to probe the matter so that it could stand up to world's scrutiny .