Embassy Demands Thorough Investigation
The Indian Embassy in Caracas has officially requested Venezuelan authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the alleged desecration and removal of organs from the mortal remains of Indian sailor Rakesh Chauhan. The embassy confirmed it has been actively pursuing the matter with local authorities since the incident came to light.
Wife Alleges Murder and Organ Theft
Rakesh Chauhan's wife, Ranjana, has alleged that her husband died under suspicious circumstances while working on a ship in Venezuela. Speaking to ANI, she stated, "My husband had gone to work on a ship; he was murdered there, and his organs were removed. To this day, they haven't given us a proper report, despite our repeated requests." She further claimed that the company employing Chauhan failed to provide any proper explanation regarding his death and did not return his personal belongings.
Second Post-Mortem Reveals Missing Organs
After Chauhan's body was repatriated to India, the family requested a second post-mortem examination. According to Ranjana, "When we had a second post-mortem done here, the report revealed that not a single organ remained in the body." She added that the family had lodged complaints with the Ministry of External Affairs in Delhi and other relevant authorities but received no resolution. Ranjana last spoke to her husband on May 6, just hours before his father-in-law received a call about an accident and hospitalization.
Union Highlights Irregularities
The Forward Seamen's Union of India (FSUI) raised the alarm, stating that the post-mortem conducted in India found no internal organs in Chauhan's body. The union listed missing organs including the brain, heart, both lungs, kidneys, liver, spleen, pancreas, stomach, intestines, thyroid, hyoid bone, larynx, and trachea. The FSUI also alleged irregularities in documentation, noting that the receipt for mortal remains was forged, signed in the name of 'Anjana Chauraisya' instead of 'Ranjana Chaurasiya'. Additionally, the vessel name on the employment agreement did not match the vessel where Chauhan was actually posted.
Union Urges Government Intervention
The FSUI has urged the Indian Embassy in Venezuela and the Ministry of External Affairs to intervene urgently. The union described the case as "shocking" and called for immediate action to ensure justice for the family. The Indian Embassy has reiterated its commitment to pursuing the matter with Venezuelan authorities.
