ETV Bharat | Neeta Kolhatkar: FSUI and Manoj Yadav Lead Successful Repatriation of Indian Seafarer from Conflict Zone
A report published by ETV Bharat, with inputs from journalist Neeta Kolhatkar, highlights the successful and arduous repatriation of Indian seafarer Rex Pereira, a resident of Nalasopara, Maharashtra, who was stranded aboard the vessel DIVA near Basra, Iraq amid the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Rex Pereira was among four Indian seafarers trapped in a high-risk zone since March 26, facing non-payment of wages, restricted movement, and uncertainty regarding their return. His case came to light after his family reached out for help, following which the Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) stepped in.
Under the leadership of Manoj Yadav, General Secretary, FSUI, coordinated efforts were initiated with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy in Iraq to secure his safe return.
As part of the intervention:
Iraqi authorities were engaged through diplomatic channels
The shipowner was compelled to return Rex Pereira’s passport and legal documents
Pending wages of four months were recovered
Safe passage across borders was facilitated with support from immigration officials
Rex Pereira undertook a difficult journey involving multiple border crossings from Iraq to Kuwait and onward travel to Riyadh before finally returning to Mumbai on April 7.
In his own words, he acknowledged that his return was made possible due to the continuous efforts of Manoj Yadav and FSUI, along with the support of Indian embassy officials.
The report also highlights the ongoing challenges faced in similar cases, where seafarers withdraw repatriation requests under pressure or false assurances from shipowners, limiting further intervention.
Continuing its efforts, FSUI has formally written to the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, seeking urgent evacuation and repatriation mechanisms for Indian seafarers stranded in Iran and other conflict-affected ports.
This case underscores the critical role played by FSUI as a frontline organization in safeguarding the rights, dignity, and safe return of Indian seafarers operating in high-risk global environments.
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