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World News Updated Jun 15, 2026

Indian Embassy in Oman Rushes to Repatriate Seafarer’s Remains

Indian national Nishanth Uirthanathan died from medical complications aboard the MT Celestial at Duqm Port, Oman. The Indian Embassy in Muscat is coordinating with the vessel’s management company and Omani authorities for the earliest possible repatriation of his mortal remains. Separately, India summoned the US Charge d’Affaires to protest attacks on commercial vessels in the Gulf of Oman that killed three Indian mariners. The embassy expressed condolences to the bereaved family and continues to liaise with all stakeholders.

Indian Embassy seeking quick repatriation of nationals' mortal remains from Oman

Muscat, June 14

The Indian Embassy in Muscat is working with the vessel's management company and Omani authorities to speed up the repatriation of an Indian seafarer's mortal remains. Nishanth Uirthanathan died due to medical complications while aboard MT Celestial, which is docked at Duqm Port.

In a post on X, it said, "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 disembarkation and repatriation of his mortal remains."

Indian national Nishanth Uirthanathan passed away aboard MT Celestial at Duqm Port following medical complications.

The Embassy of India in Muscat on Saturday condoled his death and is making arrangements for the repatriation of his mortal remains in India.

In a post on X, the embassy said, "An Indian national, 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."

The report comes as India on Friday summoned the United States Charge d'Affaires, Jason Meeks, and lodged a "strong protest" over the continuing attacks by US naval forces on commercial vessels carrying Indian mariners in the Gulf of Oman, which have resulted in the deaths of three Indian nationals.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the US Charge d'Affaires was called to the ministry earlier in the day, where India's concerns over the incidents were formally conveyed.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Priya S

My uncle was a merchant navy officer for years. These seafarers risk their lives daily to keep global trade moving. The embassy doing its bit is good but we need better medical facilities on such vessels too.

Vikram M

@Priya S - Absolutely! Many Indian sailors work on ships with substandard medical care. This is a wake-up call for shipping companies. Also, the US must stop targeting commercial vessels - innocent lives matter.

Rahul R

🌹 Condolences to the family. But why is the Indian government only acting after death? We already lost three Indians in similar incidents. The MEA should proactively negotiate with all parties to ensure safe passage for Indian mariners.

Ananya R

This is so tragic. My cousin works in the merchant navy and I worry everyday. The embassy's efforts are appreciated but why are our sailors being put in harm's way in the Gulf of Oman? India must press for a no-attack zone.

Nikhil C

Sad news. But honestly, why is the US navy attacking commercial vessels? This is not just about India - it's about international law. The MEA should take this to the UN. Too many Indian lives lost.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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