NEW DELHI: India has formally sought an urgent investigation from Venezuelan authorities after the body of an Indian merchant navy seafarer was returned to his family with several vital organs reportedly missing. The disturbing case has triggered outrage, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Indian Embassy in Caracas, and seafarers’ unions demanding a thorough inquiry into both the sailor’s death and the handling of his mortal remains.
The deceased has been identified as Rakesh Chauhan, a 33-year-old seafarer from Uttar Pradesh’s Deoria district. According to his family, Chauhan died in Venezuela in May while serving aboard a merchant vessel. Venezuelan authorities reportedly informed them that he had suffered a cardiac arrest, but the circumstances surrounding his death have since come under intense scrutiny.
Shocking Discovery During Examination
Questions arose after Chauhan’s body was repatriated to India. Family members requested a fresh post-mortem examination, during which doctors reportedly found that many of his internal organs were absent.
According to reports, the examination revealed that several major organs, including the brain, heart, lungs, liver, kidneys and other internal organs, were missing. Medical officials also noted extensive surgical stitching extending from the neck to the lower abdomen and across the head, indicating that a previous autopsy had likely been conducted abroad. However, no official autopsy report or detailed medical documentation accompanied the body when it arrived in India.
The absence of crucial medical records has made it impossible for Indian doctors to independently determine the exact cause of Chauhan’s death.
MEA Seeks Immediate Investigation
Following the family’s allegations, the Ministry of External Affairs moved swiftly by directing the Indian Embassy in Caracas to engage with Venezuelan authorities.
In an official statement, the embassy confirmed that it has requested a comprehensive investigation into the alleged removal of organs and the handling of Chauhan’s remains. It said the mission has remained in continuous contact with local authorities and is pursuing the matter to establish accountability and ensure justice for the deceased and his family.
The Indian government has emphasized the need for complete transparency regarding the events leading to the sailor’s death and the procedures carried out after his demise.
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Family Demands Justice
Chauhan’s family has rejected the explanation that he died due to a heart attack, saying too many questions remain unanswered.
His widow has demanded clarity about what happened in Venezuela, asking why no detailed medical report was provided and under what authority the organs were removed. She has appealed to both the Indian and Venezuelan governments to ensure a fair investigation.
The tragedy has left the family devastated, with relatives stating that they deserve to know the truth behind Chauhan’s death.
Seafarers’ Union Raises Serious Concerns
The Federation of Seafarers’ Unions of India (FSUI) has also expressed grave concern over the incident and called for an independent investigation.
The union questioned why the body was returned without a complete autopsy report and said the condition of the remains raises serious issues regarding the treatment and safety of Indian seafarers working overseas.
FSUI has urged authorities to determine whether established international protocols were followed and to ensure accountability if any violations occurred. The organisation has also sought adequate compensation and support for Chauhan’s family.
Questions Over International Procedures
Medical experts note that organs can sometimes be removed during a forensic autopsy for examination, especially in cases involving unexplained deaths. However, standard international practice requires detailed documentation explaining every procedure performed and ensuring that appropriate records accompany the body.
In Chauhan’s case, the reported absence of such documentation has intensified concerns and prompted calls for a transparent investigation into whether proper legal and medical procedures were followed.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue
The Indian Embassy in Caracas continues to remain engaged with Venezuelan officials to obtain the complete facts surrounding the incident.
Officials are seeking copies of the original medical examination, autopsy findings and all documents related to Chauhan’s death. The outcome of the investigation is expected to determine whether any criminal negligence, procedural lapses or other irregularities occurred.
The case has attracted widespread attention in India and has renewed discussions about the protection of Indian citizens working aboard international merchant vessels. Until the investigation is completed, Chauhan’s family continues to await answers regarding the circumstances of his death and the condition in which his body was returned.
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