Tragic Loss: Family of Seafarer Killed in US Strike Seeks Body Repatriation

The family of Aditya Sharma, a 23-year-old seafarer who lost his life in a US military strike on an oil tanker, is appealing to the Himachal Pradesh government and central authorities for the return of his body to their village for last rites. They are seeking answers regarding the circumstances of his death and the rescue efforts made. Local officials have expressed their condolences and are working to facilitate the repatriation process. This tragic incident has left the family devastated, raising questions about safety and accountability in maritime operations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 11, 2026, 17:47 IST

Family's Plea for Repatriation

Shimla: The family of Aditya Sharma, a 23-year-old seafarer tragically killed in a US military strike on an oil tanker near the Strait of Hormuz, is urging both the Himachal Pradesh government and the central authorities to facilitate the return of his body to their hometown of Galore in Hamirpur for his final rites.

Aditya was one of three crew members who lost their lives when the US military targeted the Palau-flagged MT Settebello in the Gulf of Oman on June 10, alleging it was breaching an American blockade by attempting to transport oil from Iran.

Out of the 24 Indian crew members aboard, 21 were successfully rescued.

As the only son of his parents, Aditya's death has left his family heartbroken, prompting them to question the rescue efforts made on his behalf.

His grandfather, Ashok, expressed their desire for clarity, stating, “We want to know why the captain proceeded despite warnings. We demand an investigation.”

Aditya's uncle, Sanjiv, recounted the anxious hours spent trying to locate him after receiving news of his disappearance.

“I got a call from my brother around 9 PM on Wednesday saying Aditya was missing. I rushed to Jalandhar, and we spent the night coordinating with the company. It was only around 1:30 AM that we learned he had passed away,” Sanjiv shared.

Aditya had intended to return home in May but chose to extend his stay on the vessel for an additional month.

Sanjiv added, “We are desperate to bring our boy home for his last rites,” mentioning that they have reached out to local MP Anurag Thakur, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, and the central government for expedited repatriation.

“We also seek answers about why Aditya was near the engine at night during the attack and whether any rescue attempts were made,” he continued.

Expressing his sorrow over the incident, Anurag Thakur stated he has contacted Foreign Minister Jaishankar to engage the Indian Embassy in Oman to liaise with local authorities and the shipping company for the swift return of Aditya's body.

In a statement released on Thursday, Chief Minister Sukhu conveyed his condolences and assured that the state government is committed to supporting the grieving family during this difficult time.

He has also instructed the district administration to extend all possible assistance to them.