Daijiworld Media Network - Muscat

Muscat, Jun 14: An Indian national, Nishanth Uirthanathan, died due to medical complications aboard MT Celestial at Duqm Port in Oman, the Embassy of India in Muscat said on Saturday.

The embassy expressed condolences to the bereaved family and said it was coordinating with the ship management company and relevant authorities to facilitate the early repatriation of his mortal remains to India.

In a statement posted on social media platform X, the embassy said Nishanth's mortal remains were currently on board the vessel at Duqm Port and that officials had been in continuous contact with all stakeholders to ensure necessary arrangements were completed at the earliest.

“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 embassy stated.

The incident comes amid growing concerns over the safety of Indian seafarers operating in the Gulf region.

Meanwhile, India on Friday summoned US Charge d'Affaires Jason Meeks and lodged a strong protest over continuing attacks on commercial vessels carrying Indian crew members in the Gulf of Oman.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the government conveyed its concerns regarding recent incidents involving US naval operations in the region, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of three Indian nationals working aboard commercial ships.

The MEA said India's concerns over the safety and security of Indian mariners were formally communicated during the meeting, while stressing the need to ensure the protection of civilian vessels operating in international waters.

Officials said the government continues to closely monitor developments and remains engaged with relevant authorities regarding the welfare and safety of Indian nationals working in the maritime sector.