Indian authorities are seeking answers after the body of Indian seafarer Rakesh Chauhan, who died on a vessel in Venezuela, is returned to India with allegations that many internal organs are missing. Chauhan’s family and the Federation of Seafarers’ Unions of India (FSUI) say his body arrives in Uttar Pradesh without an autopsy report and that a post-mortem conducted in India finds the absence of major organs including the brain, heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, spleen, and parts of the digestive tract. Multiple outlets also report extensive stitching on the body, suggesting a prior procedure may have been performed before repatriation.
The Indian Embassy in Venezuela is reported to be demanding a full investigation from Venezuelan authorities, while Indian government agencies are being urged to intervene. Sources also cite allegations that the shipping company provided inconsistent accounts of Chauhan’s condition and cause of death following what the family describes as an accident aboard ship. Because the second post-mortem in India reportedly cannot determine the cause of death due to missing organs, the family and union are calling for the release of all related documents, clarification of circumstances, and appropriate action and compensation.
