Brendan Devenney (24) from Mullingar, Co Westmeath was found unconscious in his hotel bedroom in Mumbai on Tuesday.

Family and friends of a young Irishman who died suddenly in India have paid tribute to the young man, who was "always happy and smiling".

Brendan Devenney, from Mullingar, Co Westmeath, was found unconscious in his hotel bedroom in Mumbai on Tuesday, one day after he had checked in.

He was found by staff when he failed to check out and rushed to the nearby Cooper Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Concerns have been raised that his drink may be been spiked.

Local politician Nicholas Almeida warned that foul play must not be ruled out.

"I have given a written complaint regarding a thorough probe into this death.

"Brendan lost consciousness after consuming alcohol and we suspect it may have been spiked. The police should conduct a proper probe instead of taking the matter lightly," he told the 'Times of India'.

While the death had originally been recorded as accidental, it could be upgraded to a murder investigation, depending on post-mortem results.

Mr Devenney, who had been living in Australia for the past number of years, had been enjoying a holiday in India when the tragedy occurred.

His heartbroken brother Enda took to Facebook to pay tribute to his sibling and call for a full investigation.

His call was echoed by friends of the young Mullingar man, who remembered him as a gentleman and a hard worker.

"Brendan Devenney was a good guy, always happy and smiling. The truth needs to come out and a proper investigation conducted. Brendan's family deserve it and for it to be concluded and proper action taken asap out of respect," said one friend.

Irish embassy staff are liaising with the Devenney family and providing consular assistance. They hope to have his remains flown home early next week.

Irish Independent