Muscat (Rajeev Sharma): An Indian crew member serving aboard the merchant vessel MT Celestial has died after suffering health-related complications while the ship was anchored at Duqm Port in Oman, officials confirmed on Saturday.
The deceased, identified as Nishanth Uirthanathan, reportedly fell ill onboard and could not survive despite medical attention. His mortal remains remain on the vessel as authorities complete the required legal and administrative procedures.
The Indian Embassy in Muscat said it has been actively coordinating with the shipping company and local officials to facilitate the swift return of the body to India. In an official statement, the mission expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and assured them of all possible assistance during the process.
Diplomatic officials stated that the embassy has remained in constant contact with all stakeholders to ensure there are no delays in completing the formalities required for repatriation.
The incident comes at a time when the safety of Indian seafarers in the Gulf region has become a matter of increasing concern. India recently lodged a strong diplomatic protest with the United States over attacks on commercial vessels operating in the Gulf of Oman that claimed the lives of three Indian nationals.
The Ministry of External Affairs had summoned the US Charge d’Affaires to register its objections, reiterating that the protection of civilian merchant ships and their multinational crews must remain a priority under international maritime norms.
The death of Nishanth Uirthanathan, though unrelated to the recent military incidents, has once again drawn attention to the hardships and uncertainties faced by Indian sailors serving on international shipping routes far from home.
