Mumbai: The family of a young Indian seafarer who died in a suspected maritime attack has approached the Bombay High Court seeking the return of his mortal remains, stressing their right to perform last rites with dignity.
Petition filed by father and daughter urges expedited process
A petition filed by Amratlal Solanki (64) and his daughter Mitali Solanki (33), through advocates Satish Talekar and Madhvi Ayyappan, urges authorities to expedite the repatriation process. The plea cites a lack of clarity and communication from officials despite repeated follow-ups. The matter is likely to come up for hearing on April 6 before a bench headed by Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar.
Dixit Solanki (25), who worked as an oiler in the engine room aboard the vessel MT MKD Vyom, was killed on March 4 when an explosive-laden drone boat struck the tanker off the coast of Oman amid the ongoing West Asia conflict. He is believed to be the first Indian casualty linked to the hostilities in the region.
Family seeks access to all investigation & forensic records
In their petition, the Solanki family has also sought access to all investigation and forensic records related to the incident. The respondents named include the Ministry of External Affairs, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the Directorate General of Shipping, and V Ships India Pvt Ltd, which manages the vessel.
The plea argues that the “fundamental right to dignity extends to a person even after death,” adding that authorities are duty-bound to ensure timely repatriation. It states, “The petitioners have a right to receive the mortal remains of the deceased family member and perform rites guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.”
Maritime regulations impose legal obligation on authorities
It further relies on maritime regulations governing deaths at sea, noting that there is a clear legal obligation on authorities. “The respondents are under the legal obligation to ensure speedy repatriation of the mortal remains of the deceased in view of Article 21… read with the Merchant Navy Act, 2025 and the rules framed thereunder,” the plea says.
Nearly a month after the incident, the family claims they have still not received the remains. They also allege that their attempts to obtain information from the shipping company yielded only vague responses stating that efforts were ongoing.
According to the petition, officials from the recruitment and placement agency informed them that they had been following up with the Indian Embassy in the UAE but had received no response. Later, the Consulate General of India in Dubai conveyed on March 17 that skeletal remains had been recovered and would be handed over to Sharjah Police for formalities, including issuance of a death certificate.
However, the family says there has been no further communication since then.
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