The death of an Indian seafarer aboard a vessel docked in Oman has ignited controversy after a maritime workers' union alleged serious lapses in medical response and post-death arrangements.
Nishanth Uirthanathan, a 35-year-old crew member aboard the tanker MT Celestial, reportedly died on June 11 after falling critically ill while the ship was stationed at Duqm Port. The incident has prompted demands for an investigation from the Forward Seamen's Union of India (FSUI), which represents Indian seafarers working across global shipping routes.
The union has accused the ship's management of negligence and claimed that proper arrangements for preserving the body were not made after the seafarer's death.
Union raises concerns over handling of mortal remains
According to the Hindustan Times, the FSUI alleged that the deceased crew member's body remained onboard the vessel for an extended period without adequate preservation facilities.
According to the organisation, fellow crew members were forced to improvise using cold water bottles in an attempt to slow decomposition. The union described the situation as distressing and raised concerns about both the dignity of the deceased and the welfare of the remaining crew members.
The organisation further claimed that requests for timely medical evacuation before the seafarer's death were delayed, though these allegations have not yet been independently verified.
The union has called for accountability from both the vessel's operators and the authorities involved in handling the situation.
Also Read | Indian Army updates dress code after 8 years, ends several colonial-era traditions
The Embassy remains in close touch with family members of the Indian national Mr. Nishanth Uirthanathan who unfortunately lost his life due to medical conditions, crew members of the vessel and concerned authorities. Efforts are underway to facilitate the earliest possible…
— India in Oman (Embassy of India, Muscat) (@Indemb_Muscat) June 14, 2026
Indian embassy confirms death, repatriation underway
The Indian Embassy in Oman confirmed the death in an official statement issued on Saturday.
According to the embassy, Nishanth Uirthanathan died from medical complications aboard the vessel while it was docked at Duqm Port. Officials stated that efforts are currently underway to facilitate the early repatriation of his mortal remains to India.
The embassy did not comment on the allegations made by the union regarding preservation arrangements or delays in medical assistance.
Authorities have also not publicly disclosed further details regarding the circumstances that led to the seafarer's illness.
Also Read | IMD sounds rain alert for Kolkata, Bengaluru; Maharashtra braces for more heatwave days
#MTCelestial (off Oman coast)
— FSUI (@FSUIINDIA) June 13, 2026
35-year-old Second Officer Nishanth Uirthanathan (Tamil Nadu) passed away on June 11 after falling seriously ill. His body has remained onboard for over 2 days with no proper refrigeration. Crew is using cold water bottles in a desperate attempt to… pic.twitter.com/hPzGh9St9U
Fresh spotlight on safety of Indian seafarers
Hindustan Times noted that the incident has once again highlighted concerns surrounding the welfare and safety of Indian seafarers working in international waters.
India is one of the world's largest suppliers of maritime personnel, with more than 300,000 seafarers serving on vessels across the globe. Thousands are employed on ships operating in the Middle East and surrounding regions.
The latest case comes amid growing attention on the challenges faced by maritime workers in conflict-prone areas. It also follows recent incidents involving Indian crew members in the Gulf region, further intensifying calls for stronger safety protocols and emergency response mechanisms.
