The tragic deaths of three Indian seafarers in missile attacks by the US Navy have sent shockwaves through India's maritime community. This incident, involving the merchant vessels MT Settebello, MT Marivex, and MT Jalveer, underscores the escalating dangers faced by civilian crews operating in conflict-prone waters. The National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI) and other maritime organizations are now demanding immediate action from the Indian government and international maritime authorities to enhance protections for these workers.
The attacks not only resulted in fatalities but also highlighted a broader issue: the vulnerability of civilian seafarers caught in geopolitical conflicts. With India being one of the largest suppliers of maritime manpower globally, the safety of its seafarers should be a national priority. The unions have called for stronger security protocols and welfare measures, emphasizing that these workers are not combatants but essential to global trade and energy supply chains.
In response to the attacks, maritime unions are advocating for a comprehensive crisis-management mechanism, increased naval protection for merchant vessels, and better insurance coverage for seafarers. The calls for action are not just about immediate safety; they reflect a growing awareness that the lives of civilian maritime workers must not be collateral damage in international conflicts. The unions are pushing for a full investigation into the incidents and the establishment of safe maritime corridors in high-risk areas.
