Key Facts
Aditya Sharma, a 23-year-old deck cadet from Hamirpur district in Himachal Pradesh, was among three Indian crew members killed when the US military struck the oil tanker MT Settebello in the Gulf of Oman on June 10, 2026. The vessel was Palau-flagged and reportedly attempting to transport oil from Iran in violation of a US blockade.
Family Demands Inquiry
The family of Aditya Sharma has demanded a thorough investigation into his death. His father, Rajesh Sharma, questioned why his son was near the engine at the time of the attack and whether any rescue efforts were made. Aditya's grandfather, Ashok, also called for an inquiry, asking why the captain proceeded despite warnings.
Aditya's uncle, Sanjiv Sharma, described the anxious hours after learning his nephew was missing. He said the family coordinated with the shipping company throughout the night and only learned of Aditya's death around 1:30 am.
Last Contact and Allegations
According to the family, Aditya sent a text message about an hour before the strike. He had previously spoken about tensions in the region after another vessel was targeted. His father alleged that Aditya faced harassment from a senior officer, claiming he was forced to work 20-hour days and was exploited. The family said a complaint was filed in April but later dropped under pressure.
Aditya's original six-month contract was due to end on May 24, but he extended his stay to complete mandatory training.
Company and Ship Manager Response
Amar TL, a crewing assistant at World Maritime Energy Private Limited, the manning agency, said the company was awaiting the captain's official statement and denied any wrongdoing. UAE-based IOS Marine, the ship manager, called for an independent international investigation, stating that no warning communication was successfully established with the vessel before the strike.
What Readers Should Know
- Aditya Sharma was a deck cadet on probation from Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh.
- The US military struck MT Settebello on June 10, 2026, killing three Indian crew members.
- The family demands an inquiry and the return of Aditya's body for last rites.
- Allegations of harassment and exploitation on board have been raised by the family.
- The shipping company and ship manager have called for an investigation.
FAQ
Who was Aditya Sharma?
Aditya Sharma was a 23-year-old deck cadet from Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, serving on the oil tanker MT Settebello. He was killed in a US military strike on June 10, 2026.
What happened to MT Settebello?
The US military struck the Palau-flagged oil tanker MT Settebello in the Gulf of Oman on June 10, claiming it was violating a blockade by transporting oil from Iran. Three Indian crew members, including Aditya Sharma, died.
What is the family demanding?
The family is demanding a thorough inquiry into the circumstances of Aditya's death, including why he was near the engine at night and whether rescue attempts were made. They also want his body brought back to India.
What allegations has the family made?
Aditya's father has alleged that his son faced harassment and exploitation by senior officers on board, including being forced to work 20-hour days. The family claims a complaint was filed but later withdrawn under pressure.