Indian Seafarer Dies on Tanker in Oman; Crew Uses Water Bottles to Cool Body Amid Political Backlash in India

New Delhi: An Indian seafarer died on board a ship docked at Duqm Port in Oman. The Forward Seamen Union of India (FSUI) has strongly condemned the incident. The union represents Indian seafarers across the world. FSUI alleged that 35-year-old seafarer Nishant Uirthnathan died on June 11 aboard shadow tanker MT Celestial due to the negligence of the ship owner. He fell seriously ill. His body has since been lying on the ship with no proper arrangements made.

How crew members preserved the body?

The FSUI posted on X stating that crew members are using cold water bottles to keep the body cool. They are doing this in dangerous and frightening conditions. The union also said that timely medical evacuation was delayed due to regional tensions.

FSUI demanded a full investigation into the preservation of the body, crew support, and the failure to respond in time. The union said the delay in help and the failure to make proper arrangements for the deceased shows clear negligence. In another post, the union also questioned Omani authorities and demanded accountability.

What Indian embassy responds?

The Indian Embassy confirmed the death of the 35-year-old seafarer in Oman. It said he died due to medical complications on board MT Celestial while the ship was docked at Duqm Port. The Embassy said arrangements are being made to bring the body back to India at the earliest.
This death comes days after three Indian seafarers were killed in a US strike on a tanker near Oman. That incident drew sharp criticism in India. Opposition parties made it a major political issue.

Rahul Gandhi attacks PM Modi?

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi raised the issue on X. He wrote, "Being an Indian under a compromised PM means humiliation. Foreign powers kill our citizens. Our government silently obeys like a servant. Our citizens are left to rot."
Gandhi tagged a post shared by the Indian captain of MT Celestial. That post stated that the body of the Second Officer was decomposing. He demanded, "Bring this Indian home. Now."