Patra, who is reportedly Priyanka's assistant, is said to have died of a suspected heart attack in Los Angeles last week. His body remains in a morgue because there was no money to send back to India.
However, Priyanka's official spokesman has issued a statement: "All details and financial requirements related to the repatriation was and is being handled directly by Ms. Chopra and his team in Los Angeles."
"This is a very unfortunate and unexpected. Our condolences to the family of Mr. Patra. Our goal was to ensure that all the remains of Mr. Patra were transferred to his family at the earliest.
Because of the situation that occurred in a foreign country where no family member was present, there were various levels of processes and procedures to be followed to ensure that the matter was handled effectively and in a timely manner. "
"Due to some delays getting from one end of the family, the repatriation of the body was delayed. Ms. Chopra also delayed his return to India to make sure everything was in place for the remains of Mr. Patra be repatriated to India, "the statement said.
The spokesman said they were in "constant contact with the family."
"All financial details and requirements relating to repatriation has been and is being handled directly by Ms. Chopra and his team in Los Angeles.'re Making every effort to ensure that your family needs are catered for in this unfortunate time" said the spokesman.