Families Want the Return of Indian Crew ASAP
The families of 16 Indian sailors are becoming increasingly concerned as they wait for their loved ones to be released from Iran. The crew were aboard the oil-tanker MT Valliant Roar that was seized on 8th December by Iranian authorities while it was in international waters. Prime Tankers LLC, the Dubai-based company that operates the vessel, denies the Iranian claim.
The vessel also had a crew member from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
Legal Action and Consular Access
The Delhi High Court has been approached by relatives who have urged the Indian Government to grant consular access in order to ensure safe returns of family members. According to documents from India’s Foreign Ministry, ten Indians were arrested and held at Bandar Abbas Prison while six remained on board the ship. The ten crew members who are currently detained have been allowed access to consular services.
Once the Iranian Navy and Prosecutor’s office have approved access, India’s embassy will expect to meet with six crewmembers on board.
On Board, Conditions are Harsh
The families of the seafarers in detention claim that they are living in poor conditions. The detainees are kept in a tiny room.The majority of personal items were taken, however, one telephone was given back, which allowed a brief contact with family members.
Generators that are not working, toilets with blocked drains and living conditions. The ship’s crew was nearing the conclusion of its nine-month contract when it was taken.
Companies Respond
Jugwinder brar, the owner of Prime Tankers stated that this ship carried Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil, which is used for refueling other vessels. The owner of Prime Tankers, Jugwinder Brar, described the incident as an misunderstanding.
Worries Amid Tensions in the Region
This seizure occurs during an era of increased US military activity in the area and political unrest throughout Iran. Families, company officials. They also fear they may be used to shield seafarers.
Pradeep Singh is the general secretary of Sailors’ Union of India. He stressed that disputes over cargo should be settled between businesses, and not through imprisonment of workers.
