Father Of Sailor Killed In Gulf Strike Seeks Enhanced Protection For Seafarers
Bereaved father seeks stronger safeguards for Indian crews.
The father of a young Indian seafarer who was killed in the recent strike on the oil tanker MT Settebello has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Central Government to strengthen safety measures for Indian sailors working in conflict-prone maritime regions. Rajesh Sharma, father of 23-year-old deck cadet Aditya Sharma, said the tragedy highlights the urgent need for greater protection of Indian seafarers operating in volatile international waters. His appeal comes amid growing concerns over the risks faced by merchant navy personnel in global conflict zones.
Aditya Sharma, a resident of Himachal Pradesh's Hamirpur district, was among three Indian crew members who lost their lives when the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello was struck near the Strait of Hormuz in the Gulf of Oman. The vessel was carrying 24 Indian crew members, of whom 21 were rescued by Omani authorities. According to family members, Aditya had communicated with them shortly before the incident, making the news of his death particularly devastating for his relatives and community.
Speaking to media, Rajesh Sharma welcomed Prime Minister Modi's recent remarks on maritime security but urged the government to move beyond statements and implement stronger safeguards. He said Indian sailors often work in dangerous regions that are vulnerable to military conflicts and geopolitical tensions. The grieving father expressed hope that future policies would ensure that seafarers can carry out their duties without fear and receive adequate protection while serving aboard commercial vessels.
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The deaths of the three Indian crew members have also sparked diplomatic concerns between India and the United States. New Delhi formally lodged a strong protest and raised the matter through diplomatic channels following the incident. The tragedy has intensified discussions about the safety of civilian shipping routes and the responsibilities of nations to protect maritime workers who play a critical role in global trade and supply chains.
The issue received international attention during the recent G7 Summit, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of secure maritime routes and the protection of seafarers. He noted that several Indian civilians had lost their lives and stressed that ensuring the safety of maritime workers is a shared global responsibility. In response, U.S. President Donald Trump acknowledged the dangers associated with the profession and said countries should continue working together to address such challenges.
The incident has renewed calls for stricter international maritime safety protocols and enhanced protections for civilian crews operating in high-risk waters. Indian authorities have already taken steps to address safety concerns, with shipping regulators issuing advisories regarding deployment in conflict zones. As investigations and diplomatic engagements continue, families of the victims are seeking accountability while hoping that measures adopted in the aftermath of the tragedy will prevent similar losses in the future.
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