The Indian Embassy in Muscat said it is coordinating with Omani authorities and the shipping company to expedite the repatriation of Indian seafarer Nishanth Uirthanathan, who died aboard MT Celestial. The update follows allegations by the FSUI of delayed medical evacuation and inadequate body preservation, while Rahul Gandhi criticised the Centre over the incident.

The Indian Embassy in Muscat on Sunday said it is actively coordinating with Omani authorities, port officials and the shipping company to facilitate the early repatriation of the mortal remains of Indian seafarer Nishanth Uirthanathan, whose death aboard the MT Celestial had triggered concern and appeals for intervention.

In an update posted on X, the embassy said the 35-year-old Second Officer died due to medical conditions and that the vessel is expected to berth soon at Duqm Port. It added that necessary arrangements have been made for the prompt recovery of his mortal remains and that the mission is in touch with the bereaved family while assisting with all formalities for the earliest repatriation to India.

The embassy had earlier stated that it had been in continuous contact with the ship management company and other stakeholders following the incident.

The clarification came after the Forward Seamen's Union of India (FSUI) alleged that Nishanth, a native of Tamil Nadu, died after falling seriously ill on June 11 and that delays in medical evacuation may have contributed to the tragedy. The union also claimed that his body had remained onboard without proper refrigeration, forcing crew members to use cold water bottles in an attempt to slow decomposition.