Indian onboard MT Celestial at Duqm Port dies of medical complications

An Indian national, Nishanth Uirthanathan, has died aboard the vessel MT Celestial while docked at Duqm Port in Oman. The cause of death has been attributed to medical complications. The Embassy of India in Muscat confirmed the death and is actively engaged in making arrangements for the repatriation of Mr. Uirthanathan's mortal remains back to India.

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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.

In a statement shared on X, the embassy expressed its condolences to the bereaved family. It detailed ongoing communication with the ship's management company and close coordination with all relevant stakeholders to facilitate the early return of the body. The embassy emphasized its commitment to resolving the necessary arrangements during this difficult time for the family.

This unfortunate incident comes at a time of heightened diplomatic tension between India and the United States. India recently summoned the US Charge d'Affaires, Jason Meeks, to lodge a "strong protest" concerning persistent attacks by US naval forces on commercial vessels that carry Indian mariners in the Gulf of Oman. These attacks have tragically resulted in the loss of three Indian lives.

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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 Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) conveyed India's deep concern over the use of lethal force against civilian shipping, highlighting that such actions jeopardize maritime safety and regional stability. The ministry reiterated that these actions are unacceptable and undermine the security and stability of international maritime commerce in a critical region during a sensitive period.

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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.