Indian Seafarers Return from Iran Amid West Asia Conflict, FSUI Urges Government Action
FSUI GS calls on government to step up efforts as stranded Indian seafarers return from Iran amid West Asia conflict
The Economic Times
Image: The Economic Times
The Forward Seamen's Union of India (FSUI) has called on the Indian government to enhance efforts to repatriate stranded Indian seafarers from West Asia, where conflict has escalated. Many seafarers have faced exploitation and financial distress while returning, with reports indicating that around 20,000 to 22,000 remain stranded in Iran and surrounding regions.
- 01FSUI demands increased government efforts for repatriation of stranded seafarers.
- 02Many Indian seafarers returning from Iran faced exploitation and financial hardship.
- 03Official figures on stranded seafarers may be underestimated, with 20,000 to 22,000 still stuck.
- 04Seafarers described life-threatening conditions while stranded amid conflict.
- 05The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is coordinating efforts for seafarer safety.
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The Forward Seamen's Union of India (FSUI) has urged the Indian government to intensify its efforts to repatriate Indian seafarers stranded in West Asia due to ongoing conflict between US-Israeli coalition forces and Iran. FSUI General Secretary Manoj Kumar Yadav reported that many seafarers have been returning via difficult routes, including Armenia, after enduring weeks of hardship. A fresh batch of returnees arrived in Mumbai, with some recounting harrowing experiences of being stranded without proper communication or support. Yadav criticized the government's focus on Indian vessels while neglecting the plight of approximately 20,000 to 22,000 Indian seafarers working on foreign ships. He emphasized that the responsibility for evacuation in conflict situations lies with the government, urging action against exploitation faced by seafarers. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways stated it is monitoring the situation and has repatriated over 2,857 Indian seafarers so far, ensuring that port operations in India remain normal.
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The situation affects thousands of Indian families who rely on seafarers for income and safety, highlighting the need for government intervention.
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