Indian Sailor Rex Pereira Escapes War-Torn Iraq, Calls for Action Against Job Agents
Bhayander sailor escapes war and explosions to reach home safely
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
Rex Pereira, a sailor from Bhayander, India, returned home after enduring harrowing conditions aboard an abandoned Iraqi vessel in Basra, Iraq. He faced food shortages, unsafe living conditions, and exploitation by job agents, prompting calls for government intervention to assist stranded Indian seafarers in the Gulf region.
- 01Rex Pereira experienced traumatic conditions while stranded on the Iraqi vessel 'Diva' in Basra, Iraq.
- 02He received only one month's salary during his six-month ordeal and faced exploitation by job agents.
- 03Pereira's return highlights the plight of over 22,000 Indian seafarers reportedly stranded in the Gulf due to ongoing conflict.
- 04The Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) is advocating for government action to ensure the safe repatriation of Indian seafarers.
- 05The US-Israel-Iran war has severely impacted maritime operations and safety in the Gulf region.
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Rex Pereira, a sailor from Bhayander, Maharashtra, India, recently returned home after a traumatic six-month experience aboard the Iraqi vessel 'Diva' in Basra, Iraq. Pereira described the constant fear of explosions, food shortages, and unpotable water, as well as the abandonment of the ship by its owners. His family had paid ₹400,000 (approximately $4,800 USD) to an agent for his job, but he received only $300 in salary for one month. The situation for Indian seafarers in the Gulf is dire, with the Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) estimating over 22,000 Indian sailors are stranded due to the ongoing US-Israel-Iran war. FSUI General Secretary Manoj Yadav reported receiving distress calls from nearly 200 seafarers on over 100 ships. He urged the Indian government to take action to ensure the safe passage and repatriation of these stranded sailors, as many lack proper documentation and are facing unsafe conditions.
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The plight of Rex Pereira and other stranded seafarers highlights the urgent need for government intervention to protect Indian citizens working abroad and ensure their safe return.
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