New Delhi, June 14: A 35-year-old Indian sailor, Nishant Urthanathan, tragically passed away aboard a vessel off the coast of Oman on Thursday. The Indian Embassy in Oman confirmed the news and stated that they are in continuous contact with the ship management company.
The embassy shared on the social media platform X, “An Indian citizen, Nishant Urthanathan, has passed away due to health complications. His body is currently aboard the MT Celestial at Duqm Port.”
They further mentioned that the embassy is working closely with all relevant stakeholders to arrange for the swift repatriation of the body to India. “Our heartfelt condolences to the grieving family during this difficult time,” they added.
Reports indicate that Nishant did not receive timely medical assistance, which led to his untimely death. The ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran have reportedly affected other countries, with several vessels being targeted near the Omani coast.
According to media reports, amidst the escalating tensions in international waters, Nishant’s health deteriorated, and he was unable to access adequate medical facilities, resulting in his death.
The Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) highlighted the incident, stating, “Another tragic event for sailors. The second officer of MT Celestial also died on the 11th due to lack of timely medical help. Even two days later, the body remains on the ship. The Duqm Port in Oman has shut down Wi-Fi/communication, and officials are unresponsive. Who cares for the sailors? They facilitate global trade, yet they face neglect in medical care and repatriation during conflicts they are not involved in.”
It is noteworthy that FSUI is the largest and oldest trade union in the country advocating for the rights of Indian sailors and merchant navy personnel.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
