Mother of Missing Indian Cadet Arrives in Singapore to Lead Search Efforts
Rasmita Mohapatra, the mother of missing merchant navy cadet Sarthak Mohapatra from Bhadrak district in Odisha, arrived in Singapore on Sunday along with her brother to personally oversee and coordinate the intensified efforts to trace her son. Sarthak went missing from the vessel EA Jersey on February 3, sparking a multinational search operation that has now entered a critical phase with the ship's docking in Singapore.
Vessel Docks in Singapore as Search Intensifies
The EA Jersey, the vessel on which Sarthak was working, also docked in Singapore on Sunday, creating a pivotal opportunity for investigators to access crucial evidence. Anglo-Eastern, the company that operates the vessel, previously stated that Sarthak was last seen exiting his room in formal clothes on the morning of February 3. Since his disappearance, the vessel's crew members conducted initial searches, but with the ship now in port, authorities are expected to ramp up inspection efforts significantly.
Family Demands Transparency and Access to Evidence
Rasmita Mohapatra emphasized the family's urgent need for transparency and comprehensive access to all technical evidence. "Since the vessel was searched by its crew members after Sarthak went missing, we are hoping to get access to CCTV footage and all other technical evidence from the period when he was last seen to understand the circumstances leading to the incident," she stated. The family has formally demanded:
- An independent investigation into the disappearance
- Full access to all technical evidence related to the vessel
- Complete transparency from the shipping company and authorities
Rasmita and her brother were accompanied by two officials from the Directorate General of Shipping, indicating governmental involvement in the case.
Previous Search Efforts and Political Intervention
Earlier search operations were conducted by the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mauritius, which carried out aerial searches after the cadet was reported missing. Additionally, the family met with Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, seeking his direct intervention to ensure a thorough investigation and to pressure relevant authorities for accountability. This political backing adds weight to the family's demands as the search enters a new phase in Singapore.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about safety and transparency in the merchant navy industry, with the family's determined efforts drawing attention to the need for robust protocols when personnel go missing at sea. As investigations continue in Singapore, all eyes are on the evidence that may emerge from the vessel to shed light on Sarthak Mohapatra's mysterious disappearance.
