The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), the Bharat Diamond Bourse, the Bombay Diamond Merchants Association, and the Diamond Exporters Association have joined together to demand that the authorities in Antwerp reveal the circumstances surrounding the diamond dealer's death.

GJEPC chairman, Sanjay Kothari, said, "Of course the authorities may carry out necessary investigations but they represent the state and society at large and we expect them to uphold human rights and to value human lives. As reported by denying timely medical attention, they trampled on his rights as a human being in a civilized society and showed utter disregard for his life. We condemn this in strongest terms."

According to witnesses, Manilal told the authorities conducting the search that he was feeling ill and he asked for medical attention. The diamantaires servants said the judge responsible for the search was called and told of Manilal's complaints. The authorities were told by the judge to continue with the search and thus, did not call for an ambulance. Manilal, the managing director of Beltaj NV, a member of the Gem Star Group of India, collapsed and passed away in his home.

The four trade organizations said they have sent the Belgian Consulate in Mumbai a memorandum strongly condemning the incident. A copy of the memorandum is also being sent to India's Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Ministry of External Affairs as well as to the Ambassador of Belgium in Delhi.