Key Facts
The Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM), an affiliate of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has formally protested the killing of three Indian seafarers in a US military attack off the coast of Oman. In a letter to US Ambassador Sergio Gor, SJM demanded accountability, compensation, and assurance that such acts will not recur.
Details of the Incident
Three Indian sailors lost their lives last week when US forces attacked a tanker near Oman. The incident prompted strong condemnation from New Delhi, which summoned US chargé d'affaires Jason Meeks to register a protest. The SJM, the economic wing of the RSS, has now escalated the issue diplomatically.
SJM's Demands and Legal Stand
Ashwani Mahajan, National Co-Convenor of SJM, stated: We would like to reinforce that India reserves the right to raise this matter at appropriate international forums, including the United Nations and the International Maritime Organization, to ensure that justice is neither delayed nor denied.
He described the killings as tragic, unprovoked
and a serious violation of international law governing the seas, armed conflict, and human rights.
Violation of UNCLOS
SJM pointed out that the attack contravenes the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which guarantees freedom and safety of navigation. The organization warned that such actions strike at the very foundation of international maritime cooperation.
Demand for Investigation
The group has called for a time-bound investigation, asserting that the right to life under international human rights law has been violated. Mahajan wrote: We are forced to say that the killing of innocent Indian seafarers is not merely a bilateral issue—it is a challenge to the rule-based international order.
Impact and What Readers Should Know
This incident highlights growing risks for Indian seafarers in volatile regions. The SJM's intervention underscores the political and legal gravity of the matter, potentially influencing India's stance at international forums. The US has yet to respond officially to the allegations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many Indian seafarers were killed in the US attack? Three Indian seafarers were killed in the US attack on a tanker off the coast of Oman.
- What action has SJM demanded from the US? SJM has demanded accountability, adequate compensation, and a time-bound investigation, warning of raising the matter at UN and IMO.
- Why does SJM consider the attack a violation of international law? SJM says the attack violates UNCLOS and international human rights law, endangering maritime safety and the right to life.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com