An Indian national, Nishanth Uirthanathan, passed away on Saturday aboard the vessel MT Celestial at Duqm Port in Oman due to medical complications, according to officials.
Embassy Response and Repatriation Efforts
The Embassy of India in Muscat expressed condolences and is actively coordinating with the ship management company and relevant authorities to facilitate the early repatriation of his mortal remains to India.
In a statement on social media platform X, the embassy confirmed, "An Indian national Mr. Nishanth Uirthanathan passed away due to medical complications. His mortal remains are currently onboard MT Celestial at Duqm Port. The Embassy has been in continuous contact with the ship management company and is coordinating closely with all concerned stakeholders. Necessary arrangements are being made for the early repatriation of the mortal remains to India. Our deepest condolences to the bereaved family during this difficult time."
Diplomatic Tensions Over Maritime Incidents
This incident occurs amid heightened diplomatic tensions between India and the United States. On Friday, India summoned the US Charge d'Affaires, Jason Meeks, to lodge a strong protest against ongoing attacks by US naval forces on commercial vessels carrying Indian mariners in the Gulf of Oman. These attacks have resulted in the deaths of three Indian nationals.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement saying, "A strong protest was lodged with him regarding the continuing attacks by US naval forces on commercial vessels carrying Indian mariners in the Gulf of Oman, which have already resulted in the tragic and avoidable loss of three Indian lives."
The MEA reiterated India's deep concern over the use of lethal force against civilian shipping, emphasizing that such actions threaten maritime safety and regional stability. "The Ministry once again conveyed its deep concern over the use of lethal and deadly force against civilian shipping. Such actions are unacceptable and undermine the safety, security and stability of international maritime commerce in a sensitive region at a difficult time," the statement added.
The embassy's efforts to repatriate Nishanth Uirthanathan's remains continue as authorities work to resolve the broader issues affecting Indian seafarers in the region.
