India Urges Iran for Swift Consular Access for Detained Crew Members

Consular Access for Indian Crew Members

New Delhi: The Indian government is actively seeking prompt consular access for 16 Indian crew members aboard a commercial vessel detained in Iran last month, as stated by the Indian embassy in Tehran on Saturday.

The embassy reported that it was notified in mid-December regarding the detention of the MT Valiant Roar, which has Indian nationals on board.

On December 14, the Indian Consulate in Bandar Abbas reached out to the Iranian government to request consular access for the crew.

Since then, the embassy has reiterated this request multiple times through diplomatic channels and face-to-face discussions in both Bandar Abbas and Tehran, including meetings at the ambassadorial level.

The embassy noted that the situation is likely to undergo judicial proceedings in Iran.

Despite this, the mission continues to urge Iranian authorities for expedited consular access and swift judicial processes for the crew.

Additionally, the embassy has requested that the crew be allowed to communicate with their families back in India.

On December 15, the Indian consulate established contact with the UAE-based company that owns the vessel.

The consulate has also coordinated with the Iranian agents of the company to ensure the crew receives food, water, and fuel, as well as legal representation in Iranian courts.

After being alerted about dwindling food and water supplies, the mission intervened with the Iranian navy to secure emergency provisions in early January.

Furthermore, the Indian Consulate in Dubai has been advocating for the ship-owning company to provide legal support and regular supplies to the vessel.