United States attack on Indian vessel kills 3 sailors, Delhi’s silence draws flak
New Delhi, July 21 (KMS): The killing of three Indian sailors in a United States strike on an Indian commercial vessel has triggered sharp criticism of the BJP-led Indian government for what opposition parties called “diplomatic cowardice” and a “deafening silence” on the deaths of its citizens abroad.
According to Kashmir Media Service, on June 10, the Indian-flagged tanker MT Settebello was struck in US strikes. Three Indian sailors were killed while 21 others were rescued. The incident is part of a wider pattern of attacks on Indian crew in recent months.
In early June, MT Marivex was struck with 24 Indians rescued and no fatalities reported. Between June 11 and 12, all 20 Indians aboard MT Jalveer were reported safe.
Earlier incidents attributed to regional tensions also endangered Indian seafarers. On March 1, MKD Vyom was hit by a drone or missile, killing one Indian sailor.
On the same day, the Palau-flagged Skylight was struck, killing two Indians with one still reported missing. On April 18, two Indian vessels were struck in the Strait of Hormuz. On May 8, a wooden dhow fire or attack killed one Indian sailor.
In total, at least seven Indian sailors have been killed across five or more incidents this year, with dozens directly impacted.
Critics said New Delhi issued only “so-called protests” to the involved parties and failed to demand accountability. “Three Indian lives were taken in the United States strike while New Delhi issued the diplomatic equivalent of a helpless shrug,” opposition leaders said, adding that the same government “beats its chest with vigor every time it wants votes.” They further alleged that India, which projects itself as a “net security provider” and maritime power, has been unable to secure justice for its own citizens.
“Delhi’s silence swallowed every claim of sovereignty, every boast of strategic autonomy,” one statement read.The government has not issued a detailed public response on the June 10 strike.
