Indian sailor dies aboard tanker in Oman; embassy begins repatriation process

An Indian seafarer has died from medical complications aboard the tanker MT Celestial while the vessel was docked at Duqm Port in Oman, according to the Indian Embassy in Muscat.

The embassy confirmed the death late on Saturday and said efforts were underway to ensure the early repatriation of the sailor's mortal remains to India.

In a statement posted on social media, the embassy said it was coordinating with the relevant authorities and stakeholders to facilitate the return of the deceased crew member. The sailor has been identified as 35-year-old Nishanth Uirthanathan.

The incident has drawn attention to the welfare and working conditions of Indian seafarers serving aboard international vessels, particularly in West Asia, where thousands of Indians are employed in the maritime sector.

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Body remained onboard for more than two days

According to the Forward Seamen's Union of India, Uirthanathan died on June 11 while onboard the vessel. The union alleged that his body remained on the tanker for more than two days without adequate refrigeration facilities.

In a social media post, the union claimed that crew members were forced to use cold water bottles in an attempt to slow decomposition. It described the situation as distressing and raised concerns about the health and safety risks faced by those onboard. The union also shared a video that it said was recorded on the vessel.

There was no immediate response from the vessel's operators regarding the allegations.

Focus on Indian seafarers

India is one of the world's largest suppliers of maritime manpower. According to a Reuters report, more than 300,000 Indian seafarers work across global shipping fleets. Of these, over 18,000 are employed in West Asia, making the region an important destination for Indian maritime professionals.

The death of the sailor comes at a time when concerns about the safety of Indian crew members operating in the region have intensified.

Incident comes amid maritime security concerns

The development follows the recent deaths of three Indian seafarers in a strike on a tanker off the coast of Oman. The incident sparked criticism from opposition parties and sections of the public, who called for stronger protection of Indian nationals working in conflict-prone maritime zones.

India has also expressed concern over attacks on civilian shipping in the region. On Friday, the Ministry of External Affairs said it had conveyed its concerns to the United States regarding the use of force against commercial vessels.

As authorities work to repatriate Uirthanathan's remains, the incident has once again highlighted the challenges and risks faced by Indian seafarers working far from home.